Pemberton, BC – The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) and Sea to Sky Community Services Society (SSCSS) have announced plans to remove the preschool play structure located on the grounds of the Pemberton and District Community Centre. Safety concerns and the cost to refurbish the aging equipment are the major reasons for the decision. The work, which will be done by SLRD staff with the assistance of a contract landscaper, is expected to take place in April, subject to weather conditions and the preschool program schedule.
The play structure, used by the community and SSCSS as part of its preschool and out of school care program, would need significant upgrades in order to comply with current safety standards. Given the age of the equipment and the difficulty and cost associated with sourcing the required materials, SSCSS and the SLRD decided that the best course of action would be to remove the play structure and level the playing surface.
“We understand the importance of providing safe spaces for children to play outdoors,” says Angela Barth, SLRD Recreation Services Manager. “Right now, safety is our main concern. But we fully intend to work with our partners to seek the funding needed to develop future opportunities for safe, natural and fun playscapes on the site.”
Moving forward, the SLRD’s Recreation Services Department will work closely with its community partners to explore future development opportunities for multi-age play structures that will meet the needs of the community. Plans will integrate the new playscapes with the existing water park and will take a phased approach, based on community and grant funding opportunities. Anyone interested in supporting the playground renewal project is asked to contact Angela Barth at (604) 894-2340 or by email at abarth@slrd.bc.ca.
Jeannette Nadon, Communications & Grants Coordinator