Bathgate Park Remediation and Reforestation

This project proposes to remediate and restore a forested area within Bathgate Park. It will involve the removal of the existing deteriorated basketball court infrastructure and surfacing. New soil will be imported to support new plantings. The site will be graded and seeded to maintain drainage and retain soil in anticipation of reforestation efforts. This will create the opportunity to re-introduce a diverse selection of native tree species into this opening in the forest.

The basketball court has reached the end of its functional lifespan and must be removed. The surfacing is cracked, uneven and in places slightly sunken. The poles have shifted, and the baskets are no longer level.

Looking southwest at the south basket

Looking northwest at the north basket

The court, located deep within Bathgate Park, is difficult to access and far from pathways and other park features. It is far from nearby streets and impossible to see, which makes regular upkeep and monitoring a challenge. The site is also in a low-lying area, where the ground can become wet and uneven. Restoring this space will improve safety and help better connect it with the park’s overall landscape.

Aerial photo indicating location of existing basketball court

Project Timeline:

• Design 2026, Construction 2026/27

Please answer the brief survey below to share your feedback. The survey will remain open until 21 July 2026.

Please note: The final design may differ slightly from the concepts presented, depending on feedback received, technical feasibility, and budget or supply constraints.

What We Heard

Thank you to everyone who participated in the public consultation for the Bathgate Park Remediation and Reforestation project. The Engage Ottawa project page received 340 visits, with 303 residents viewing project information, 82 participants exploring project materials more deeply, and 19 residents completing the survey and providing feedback on tree species selection and park naturalization opportunities.

What residents like about the proposed reforestation project:

• Native tree planting and biodiversity – Residents supported increasing native tree diversity and welcomed efforts to restore ecological functions.
• Red Mulberry and other native species – Survey respondents showed preference for Red Mulberry, followed by Tulip Tree and Swamp White Oak.
• Wildlife habitat enhancement – Residents supported planting species that provide food, shelter, and nesting opportunities for birds and other wildlife.
• Naturalization of the park – Participants were enthusiastic about restoring the natural character of the site, providing pollinator habitat and improving ecological resilience.

Thoughts residents had on the overall project:

• Include native understory vegetation, shrubs, and groundcover plantings to support biodiversity, pollinators and invasive species management.
• Incorporate educational signage describing tree species and ecological benefits.
• Address broader concerns regarding pathways, seating, lighting and waste management. To be addressed as follow-on projects.

Next Steps & Decisions

As part of a broader park improvement, park signage will be refreshed, and 2 new permanent waste receptacles will be installed at either end of the park.

The engagement phase is now complete, and the project team will use public feedback to help inform final planting selections and restoration planning. Future updates will continue to be shared through the Engage Ottawa project page as implementation proceeds.