Project Description: The open-air picnic shelter (52s.m.) will be in Tot Park. It provides for rain protection for its users. It is sited so that its height is minimal (dug into the bank) and is relatively unobtrusive. It will create a central focus for our unique community. There is no electrical or plumbing infrastructure proposed. The concept design includes heavy timber construction celebrating our west coast heritage and locally available materials and labour skills. It provides natural light and fresh air to the users.
Many users will be easily accommodated by the welcoming shelter. The current concept design allows for easy supervision and observation by passers-by, thusly avoiding negative behaviors or unwelcome activities, thereby satisfying CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) concerns.
This construction also presents the possibility to investigate and remediate the swampy area at the base of the hill just north of the playground. We are planning to include this investigation into the geotechnical investigation of the site that is required for the foundation. The DoS is enthusiastic about this project and has already initiated a archeological study to ensure that no First Nations important sites are located at this location.
The building conforms to current zoning, and the 2018 Parks Master Plan.
Project Uses: We envision the open air shelter to be used:
- for shelter for parents minding children playing in the park,
- pedestrians taking a break from their strolls or dog walking
- allow small gatherings of neighbours
- a sheltered place for families and friends to have picnics
- a location to have neighbourhood meetings year round, like the Sandy Hook Community Association, and other community meetings
- Special events, public discussions, and possibly an emergency gathering place.
Background:
- 2019-2021 – A sheltered structure in Sandy Hook has been discussed for several years.
- October 2021 – The Tot Park picnic structure was approved at the 2021 SHCA AGM
- June 2022 – District of Sechelt Council supports the Sandy Hook Community Association’s open‐air picnic shelter project at Tot Park.
- Summer 2022 – the SHCA applied to the Sunshine Coast Community Forest Legacy Fund (SCCFLF) for financing to construct the Skookum Hut. Because the project was not “shovel ready” the funding was not granted. Project nicknamed the Skookum Hut.
- November 2023 – Budget request submitted to DoS by SHCA for costs to get project shovel ready.
- 2023 – Capital project funding for $30,000 granted to develop the plan so it is “shovel ready”. Evidence of community support needed to move the project forward.
- 2023 – August – SHCA develops a survey and posters for community to demonstrate support and interest.
Please complete the following survey by September 15th, 2023.
Sandy Hook Community Association 