Clarington Council approves design vision for park on the former lands of the Bowmanville Zoo

Clarington, Ontario – Clarington Council has approved the Master Plan for the future 34-acre park on the former lands of the Bowmanville Zoo, located just north of Highway 2 in east Bowmanville. The project will now advance to the detailed design of phase one, focusing on a trail network within the park to start construction next year and open in 2026.

“In Clarington, the Zoo Lands are near and dear to our hearts. We know residents will be excited to once again have access to this well-loved property, which has long been an important part of the Clarington community,” said Mayor Adrian Foster. “By getting to work as soon as possible to construct trails within the park, we can have useable greenspace for everyone to enjoy, as we continue to work to design and build the ambitious park space that was created in consultation with the community.”

The park’s design, developed with community input and in collaboration with local community group Valleys 2000, captures the natural features and history of the land into the vision. From natural play structures to an outdoor amphitheatre, connected trails, demonstration gardens, and art and culture installation spaces – the vision for this area is a bold and inspiring signature park for the community that honours the legacy of Soper Creek and the former zoo, and integrates the lands into the broader trail system.

Rendering of a boardwalk trail through a wet meadow.

Rendering of a natural / adventure playground made of natural materials like tree stumps, logs and rocks. Children are drawn jumping from tree stump to tree stump and balancing on logs.

Rendering of a natural / adventure playground.

Rendering of an ampitheatre depicting natural stone seating built into the side hill with people gathering on the seats.

A rendering of an amphitheatre.

“We are very excited to work with Clarington and our community partners on this transformational project to create a wonderful park and opportunities for green education in the heart of Bowmanville,” said Ron Strike, President of Valleys 2000. “We want to recognize the leadership and vision of Clarington Council and staff that lead to this day.”

Visit www.clarington.net/BowmanvillePark to see the design plans and learn more about the project.

Media inquiries:
Municipality of Clarington
Kaitlin Keefer, Communications Officer
905-809-3454 | kkeefer@clarington.net