Residents in White Rock, B.C., are expressing concerns about the lack of public access to West Beach due to the closure of Coldicutt Park Ravine three years ago. The city had cited slope instability and proximity to a rail line as reasons for the closure, but residents who use the trail to access the beach are frustrated that an alternate way to cross the tracks has not been built. Some residents have suggested that the city should consider building a rail overpass similar to those in the City of Surrey to address the issue.
The Coldicutt Park Ravine was donated to the city by the Coldicutt family years ago with the intention that it would be enjoyed by the public and serve as a pathway to the beach. However, the ravine has suffered from a lack of maintenance, including broken steps and missing rails, making it difficult for residents to access the beach. Despite the closure, residents continue to use the pathway, often ignoring the barriers put in place by the city. The City of White Rock has declined to comment on the issue, stating that the ravine area presents challenges such as unsafe access across railway tracks and the risk of environmental harm.
Residents have been actively reaching out to the city to address the lack of public access to West Beach, with some residents emailing city officials multiple times about the issue. The city has responded by citing safety concerns as the reason for not building an alternate way to cross the tracks, claiming that it is unsafe to do so. However, residents believe that the city should prioritize finding a solution to allow public access to the beach, as the Coldicutt Park Ravine was meant to serve as a pathway for residents to enjoy the beach.
In light of the ongoing concerns raised by residents, the City of White Rock has stated that securing senior government funding to rebuild its seaside pier remains its current priority. While the city acknowledges the challenges presented by the Coldicutt ravine area, it has not provided a timeline or concrete plans for addressing the issue of public access to West Beach. Residents are hopeful that the city will take their concerns seriously and work towards finding a solution that allows for safe and accessible public access to the beach while addressing the safety and environmental concerns associated with the area.
Overall, residents in White Rock are frustrated by the lack of public access to West Beach following the closure of Coldicutt Park Ravine three years ago. The city’s decision to close the ravine due to safety concerns has left residents without a convenient way to access the beach, leading to anger and frustration among those who relied on the trail. As residents continue to raise concerns and push for a solution, the City of White Rock faces pressure to address the issue and find a way to provide safe and accessible public access to West Beach while addressing safety and environmental concerns in the area.
