A new dock at Banfield Park has attracted many seeking to beat the heat and go for a swim, but a nearby resident says it has put pressure on the neighbourhood that she’s hoping council will address.
Pat Pearce loves a sunny spot in Vic West so much, that she moved here seven years ago.
“We feel so fortunate to live in this area and have this facility and see it so well used,” she says.
The facility in question is the addition to the swimming dock at Banfield Park that’s seen crowds flock to the area as the summer heat intensifies. The dock has become a summer staple for families, but Pearce says the park’s infrastructure hasn’t kept pace with the expansion, meaning a mess for residents.
“There are only two garbage cans,” she says.
Garbage and recycling was overflowing when temperatures hovered around 40°C the first weekend of July. Also at issue, two porta potties at the lower entrance to the park that are in constant use, and are rank in the summer heat.
Watch the full report below:
“I feel sorry for the people who have to use them,” she says.
Of all the issues though, she says parking is the most pressing. She finds beachgoers regularly parking in residents-only spots and has even had her driveway blocked.
“People don’t seem to understand the meaning of ‘Residential Parking Only,'” Pearce said.
Pearce is supportive of the expansion though, but has contacted Victoria City Council via email. Coun. Jeremy Caradonna says the scene on summer days is exactly what the city envisioned with expansion.
“It’s absolutely gorgeous,” he says. “It’s increased safety. It’s increased access to the water and I think the turnout really speaks for itself.”
Caradonna says overcrowding is a concern, and to create more options two more beach overhauls are on the way.
“One is elswehere in Vic West. We’re calling it Bridges Park and it’s by the Railyards development. The other is at Ogden Point in James Bay,” he said.
In the meantime, people are encouraged to come to Banfield Park and enjoy surprisingly warm water, but to pack out what you bring in.
As for Pat, you’ll see her in her kayak. “I don’t swim,” she says.
READ PREVIOUS:
Jordan Cunningham
