With updates on plans for Mack Laing Nature Park expected this fall, the Town of Comox has created an informational hub for residents to learn more about the property and its history, and to follow news on updates to the park.
The information hub for Mack Laing Nature Park is being made available at this time in response to questions from the public about how best to stay up to date on the park’s plans.
“We know this is an important park for many people in Comox and we wanted to make sure there was an easy way for them to keep abreast of news in the coming months,” said Mayor Paul Ives. “It’s important to everyone in Comox that this park honour the conservation and education goals laid out by Mack Laing.”
In 1973, Hamilton Mack Laing deeded his property and home to the Town of Comox. Since 1983, the Town of Comox has operated Mack Laing Nature Park, adding trails and interpretive signs to foster the public’s appreciation of nature.
In 1982, Mack Laing also gave, in trust, the residual cash from his estate to the Town of Comox. Currently, the Town of Comox is seeking a variance to the terms of this trust to allow for the funds to be spent on the construction and maintenance of a new viewing platform at the site of Shakesides, the current home on the property.
Plans for the viewing platform are currently on hold as the Town awaits the B.C. Supreme Court’s decision regarding the trust – a decision that could come by the end of 2018.
“In gifting his property to the Town of Comox, Mack Laing intended it to be used for public enjoyment, namely recreation and conservation,” said Richard Kanigan, chief administrative officer.
“Council and staff respect that intent and are proposing a practical and feasible project, one that honours the spirit of Mr. Laing’s wishes.”
Informational materials about the park – including future updates – will be hosted on the Mack Laing Nature Park’s webpage, comox.ca/macklaingpark.
