The Town of Comox has purchased more than 2.6 hectares of land on Balmoral Avenue to create a new public park and green space.

The property at 1413 Balmoral Avenue officially changed hands on March 1 and will become Newson Family Nature Park, recognizing the family that owned the land for generations.

Plans for the site include a stone masonry base with an anchor and plaque outlining the history of the Newson and Fairbairn families.

A labyrinth monument will also be installed, while part of the existing Dahlia gardens will be preserved. Memorial trees and dedicated benches are also planned for the park.

Mayor Nicole Minions says parks and open spaces are an important part of the community and the property will create a place for people to gather outdoors while preserving the family’s legacy.

She says the location connects with nearby natural areas, including Brooklyn Creek, Macdonald Wood and Mack Laing, helping form what the town sees as a large central park space envisioned in long-term planning.

Richelle Newson says the land represents her family’s legacy and sharing it with the community is the best way to honour the memory of past generations.

She says the property has long been a welcoming place for family and community gatherings.

The town says the purchase is being funded through previously collected Development Cost Charges set aside for parkland, meaning it will not affect property taxes.

The property will remain closed to the public for about six months while initial work takes place.

A development timeline is expected to be posted next year.

To learn more about the park, the family history and some of the plans, visit Town of Comox.