EDITOR:
Allow me to add my comments about the floating dock to be installed at Victoria Park. My initial reaction was that it seemed like a good idea. There has been a noticeable increase in the use of small water craft over the past few years, so the addition of a floating dock at Victoria Park would be a more convenient launching point for some.
Indeed, the results of The Guardian’s “Quick Question” on this subject (Aug. 10th) shows that 50 per cent of respondents approve of the idea.
After speaking to others and reading Kirsten Connor’s opinion piece in The Guardian (Aug. 9th), however, I am now against the idea.
My main reason is parking along the boardwalk, which is at a premium this time year. As Ms. Connor mentioned, people like to park along there to enjoy the scenery. Much of the parking area near the pool and playground is taken up by families using those facilities. With the addition of the new accessible playground equipment soon to open, no doubt there will be even greater demand for parking near there.
As for the other benefits of a floating dock, there are already enough vantage points for photographers along the boardwalk. Better access for those who want to go swimming? There hasn’t been anyone swimming in the harbour for years, mainly because of water quality. Liability issues could be a factor as well in the case of someone, mainly children, getting injured diving off the dock.
David MacCallum,
Charlottetown