VANCOUVER, Oct. 17, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Industry and Member of Parliament for Port Moody – Westwood – Port Coquitlam, on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced that Admiralty Point will be protected from development and preserved as a public park for future generations.
As part of Belcarra Regional Park, Admiralty Point already has several basic visitor amenities in place including a hiking trail and way finding signs. The waterfront trail with beautiful vistas and pocket beaches is sure to remain one of the signature experiences in Admiralty Point Park. The scenic waterfront property, on the edge of Vancouver, is Federal Crown land that has been leased to Metro Vancouver through a 99-year lease that expired in 2011. The decision comes after discussions with Metro Vancouver, local communities and the Tsleil-Waututh Nation to assess interests in the lands.
Initiatives like these are supporting Canada's National Conservation Plan by taking practical action in the three priority areas of conserving Canada's lands and waters, restoring Canada's ecosystems and connecting Canadians to nature.
Quick Facts
- Admiralty Point Park is 190-acres in size including two kilometers of ocean waterfront with exceptional views of the Burrard Inlet. With pocket beaches, fishing spots, scenic viewpoints, trails and rustic landings for paddlers, it will continue to serve as an important natural space in the Lower Mainland. It will also be a place to learn about the rich cultural history of the area.
- Admiralty Point was spared from development in 1860 when it was put aside as a military reserve. In the early 1900s, it was recognized as park land and leased by the Government of Canada to the City of Vancouver for a nominal fee. The lease was later taken over by Metro Vancouver Parks.
Quotes
"Through the National Conservation Plan, our Government is committed to protecting our rich and natural heritage. Admiralty Point is a unique and beautiful location that will help residents to connect with nature. "
The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
"I am pleased to announce that after a century of leasing Admiralty Point lands, the Government of Canada will manage this magnificent property through Parks Canada. A key part of Belcarra Regional Park, Admiralty Point will continue to operate as a public park ensuring that locals and visitors alike will be able to enjoy the natural heritage of the park for years to come."
The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Industry, Member of Parliament for Port Moody—Westwood—Port Coquitlam
"Metro Vancouver looks forward to working with Parks Canada, the Tsleil-Waututh First Nation, and the surrounding communities to help ensure Admiralty Point's continued protection for Metro Vancouver residents, and for all Canadians."
Greg Moore, Chair, Metro Vancouver Board of Directors
"This announcement is excellent news for both the Tri-Cities communities and the Lower Mainland. The continued use of the former military reserve as 'park' in conjunction with Belcarra Regional Park means future generations of Lower Mainland citizens will be able to enjoy this great natural asset."
Ralph Drew, Mayor of Belcarra
SOURCE: Parks Canada
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