Watkiss Way Neighbourhood Park

The redevelopment of the property at the corner of Watkiss Way and Burnside Road by BC Transit provided a 1.5-acre linear space along Watkiss Way for the Town to create a new neighbourhood park!

Project Overview

View Royal's Parks System

Public EngagemenT

Documents & FAQ

Project Overview

The redevelopment of the property at the corner of Watkiss Way and Burnside Road by BC Transit provided a 1.5-acre linear space along Watkiss Way for the Town to create a new neighbourhood park. The Town is early in the planning and wants to hear the neighbourhood’s thoughts about how you would like to see the space designed and used. The Town has allocated funds in the 2024 Capital Budget for construction.

Located in the growing Burnside neighbourhood, the property is close to well-serviced transit routes and the Galloping Goose Regional Trail. A large Capital Regional District water main runs underneath the park and access must be maintained, meaning permanent structures and asphalt cannot be installed. Less “permanent” features like benches, fencing, grass, and community garden plots are possibilities to be explored.


Aerial view of the future Watkiss Way Neighbourhood Park

View Royal's Parks System

The parks system is integral to the unique spirit of “place” in View Royal. Parks support and enhance the health of the community for residents, wildlife, and natural ecosystems. Developing and maintaining opportunities to connect people to nature and recreation through strategic investment and management is vital to maintaining the high quality of life in View Royal. Neighbourhood parks are generally small and respond to the open space and recreation needs of local residents. Amenities include passive and active recreation uses and open space.

The Town has heard a desire from residents for more community gardens and off-leash dog areas. Among other uses, these are two activities that can be explored for this space.

  • Community gardens are noted to be one of the least utilized amenities by residents; however, there are only approximately 50 community garden plots in the Town.
  • Off-leash dog areas are one of the most popular park amenities enjoyed among residents. There are currently 5 off-leash dog park areas in View Royal, including Thetis Lake Regional Park.

Map of existing park space in the Burnside Neighbourhood (Green) and location of future Watkiss Way Neighbourhood Park (Blue)

Public Engagement Opportunities

The engagement process was undertaken from November 6, 2023 to November 24, 2023. Public engagement opportunities included an online survey, drop-in open house, and on-site pop-up event.

What We Heard Summary Engagement Report [PDF - 7 MB]

 Documents & FAQ

 Contact