Mooney’s Bay playground, unveiled for Canada 150, in need of repair

Fewer than 10 years after opening during Canada 150 celebrations, a popular playground at Mooney’s Bay is in need of repairs. CTV’s Natalie van Rooy reports.

The expansive Canada-themed Mooney’s Bay playground was unveiled with much fanfare as part of Canada’s 150th birthday celebrations in 2017, but now, just eight years later, the $2-million structure is already in need of repairs.

It was called Canada’s largest playground when it was built nearly a decade ago and it immediately became a popular spot for kids, but the local councillor says some parents are now raising concerns about signs of disrepair.

There’s rotting wood, chipped paint, and at least one nail sticking out.

“It’s a really cool park and I think it would be awesome to keep it up, fixed up, and in good shape for the kids,” said Stephanie Collings, who was at the park with her two kids on Thursday.

River Ward Coun. Riley Brockington says he brought forward a long list of issues with parks in his ward to city staff about a month ago, including the wood rot at this site.

“Certainly, there are issues throughout the year and every year there’s normal wear and tear,” said Brockington. “In Ottawa’s largest playground, and more recently throughout the summer, we have heard from a few residents about issues, so I did send one of my staff down to the site.”

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Brockington says that staff member made notes on what needed to be fixed. He expects the city to move on repairs.

In the meantime, the park remains safe to use.

When the park was built, it cost the city $1 million, with another million coming from a production company behind a TVO show called The Giver.

The construction of the park also faced controversy with many residents angry at the time over a lack of public consultation with the planning process.

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