Public invited to weigh in on updated designs for Long Lake waterfront park
Nanaimo residents will get a first-hand look at the latest plans to overhaul Loudon Park at Long Lake during an on-site open house on Thursday, July 23. The City says the session is intended to gather more feedback on designs that have been refined with input from user groups, community organizations and neighbours.
City staff will be available between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. at 4295 Victoria Ave. to answer questions and document comments on the multi-faceted project, which carries a $11.4‑million budget. The proposal centres on a new community facility and a suite of park upgrades aimed at accessibility, recreation and shoreline use along one of Nanaimo’s most active inland lakes.
What’s proposed at Loudon Park
The concept under review envisions a versatile community building with reservable space, including a kitchen, modern washrooms and an outdoor terrace. It would also accommodate flatwater paddling and rowing training needs, with dedicated storage for boats and related equipment. Beyond the building, the draft plan outlines broader park improvements, including:
- Expansion of the beach area and installation of a new dock to improve lake access;
- A replacement or upgraded playground with modern features;
- Trail, landscaping and accessibility enhancements across the site;
- Designated areas for picnicking and space that can host food trucks during events or peak seasons.
According to the City, the current iteration reflects themes heard so far from residents and user groups. The municipality says continued public engagement will help refine the next phase of detailed design.
Mayor cites accessibility and long-term community use
Mayor Leonard Krog framed the project as an investment in a popular public gathering place that should serve a wide range of users. In a prepared statement, he said:
“Community feedback has played a critical role in shaping these proposed improvements, and we encourage residents to join us to view the updated designs for the park improvements and new amenity building. Together, we are creating an accessible park and facility that will better serve our growing community for generations to come.”
The City underscored recent land assembly steps to bolster the project scope. Two adjoining properties were purchased last October, adding more than 2,000 square metres—an increase of roughly 29 per cent—to the park footprint. That expansion allows planners to consider larger waterfront and circulation upgrades than were previously possible.
Open house details and project at a glance
Thursday’s event is a key checkpoint in a process the City says has been shaped by public input to date. Residents who cannot attend can review information and updates on the City’s project page.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 4295 Victoria Ave. (Loudon Park at Long Lake) |
| Date & Time | Thursday, July 23, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. |
| Project Budget | $11.4 million |
| Park Expansion | +2,000 m² (approx. 29%) via two property purchases last October |
| Key Features | Community building, beach enlargement, new dock, playground, trails, accessibility upgrades |
| More Information | nanaimo.ca/your-government/projects/loudon-park-improvements |
Why it matters for Nanaimo
Loudon Park serves residents across the city—from paddling and rowing communities to families looking for lakeside recreation. The proposed changes would reshape access to Long Lake and add indoor and outdoor amenities that can be reserved for community use. With an $11.4‑million price tag and a larger site now assembled, the project represents a significant capital investment in a neighbourhood park that functions as a regional draw.
The City says it will continue to collect input as designs evolve. Thursday’s session offers an opportunity for residents to confirm priorities—such as accessible pathways, lake access, and space for community programming—before plans are finalized.
