Plans to replace a staircase will once again allow people to safely descend to the beachfront at Dorman Point.
After purchasing the property five years ago, Metro Vancouver expressed interest in fully connecting Dorman Point to Crippen Park. The location is already a popular lookout spot following a switchback-filled hike (or shorter trip up from the end of Robinson Road), and work has since continued on expanding the area’s trail network to reach the rest of the point including the beach.
This work involved a request to council for a development variance permit in order to construct a staircase to the beach which lies a steep drop down the neighbouring cliff. An existing staircase has fallen into disrepair and is very unsafe for use. Metro hopes to fully replace the dangerous structure with a new and safe pathway to the beach.
“The variance request appears to be low impact and will reopen public access to an attractive natural location,” said island community planner Drew Bakken.
In response to concerns raised over potential disturbance of wildlife, manager of environment and parks planning Carla Skuce said no forage fish habitats were identified at the beach area.
“I don’t think we found any forage fish eggs through the volunteer monitoring that people have been doing for several years… As far as I can tell no harm is coming to our public beaches and nobody has raised alarm bells about that on even our most used public beaches,” added Coun. Sue Ellen Fast.
Future work by Metro at Dorman Point also includes a trio of viewpoints offering various views of Howe Sound, along with a weather shelter. There’s no timeline yet though on these structures.
“I’m looking forward to this property at Dorman, under the management of Metro Parks, being open and ready for the public,” said mayor Andrew Leonard. “I think it’s a beautiful extension of equipment. For all of the challenges we’ve had with Metro Vancouver in regards to Cape Roger Curtis, I think their management and development of Crippen Park... over the years has been outstanding.”
The staircase variance passed in a 6-1 vote with Coun. Judith Gedye opposed.
