Petticoat Creek: Clearing Up the Facts About the Aquatic Facility

We know Petticoat Creek holds a special place in the hearts of many Pickering residents.

For years, families gathered at its outdoor aquatic facility to swim, cool off and spend summer days together. We understand the disappointment surrounding its closure and recognize that many residents have fond memories connected to this much-loved community destination.

With renewed community discussion about the aquatic facility, we also want to help clarify who owns and operates Petticoat Creek Conservation Park, what has happened with the pool and what role the City of Pickering plays.

First, Petticoat Creek Conservation Park is still open

While the aquatic facility is permanently closed, Petticoat Creek Conservation Park remains open to visitors during its regular operating season. Visitors can continue to enjoy the park's picnic areas, natural surroundings and access to the Waterfront Trail.

Who owns Petticoat Creek Conservation Park?

Petticoat Creek Conservation Park is located in Pickering, but it is not owned or operated by the City of Pickering.

The 70-hectare waterfront property is owned and operated by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). As the property owner and operator, TRCA is responsible for the park and its facilities, including the former aquatic facility.

Why did the aquatic facility close?

In 2020, TRCA commissioned an engineering assessment of the aging aquatic facility, which identified significant infrastructure and equipment issues. Based on the findings of the assessment, and due to the costs and challenges of securing capital and long-term operational funding, it was determined that the 49-year-old facility had reached the end of its serviceable life. The extent and nature of the issues meant continued repairs would not provide a viable or sustainable path to keeping the facility operational.   

TRCA continues to explore grant opportunities and partnerships to support future recreational amenities that are appropriate for the site and consistent with Petticoat Creek's purpose as a conservation park. Options that have been explored include a water-themed splash pad, which could provide aquatic recreation with the potential for a longer operating season. TRCA is also seeking support from all levels of government and partners for improved amenities such as heated washrooms, upgraded access roads and parking, along with operational funding to support year-round access to the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail that runs through the property.

Has the City been involved?

Petticoat Creek Conservation Park is owned and operated by TRCA. As a conservation park, its primary purpose is to protect and enhance the site's natural systems while providing opportunities for public access, recreation and enjoyment that are compatible with its conservation function. This purpose guides how the park is planned, managed, and invested in. Future improvements must balance opportunities to enhance the visitor experience with the protection of the park's natural areas and the important functions they provide, including wildlife habitat, natural hazard management, and outdoor education, while taking into account recreational amenities such as the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail passing through the property.

In recent years, the City and TRCA have explored opportunities for the City to invest in recreational amenities and other improvements at Petticoat Creek. City planning work contemplated potential improvements such as a replacement pool and splash pad, enhanced trails and picnic facilities, and other recreational amenities. Any future investment and improvements would need to be considered within the conservation purpose of the park and through appropriate planning for the site.

The City and TRCA continue to explore opportunities to leverage investment from other levels of government and interested organizations to address essential infrastructure needs at Petticoat Creek. The TRCA is interested in securing funding from partners to advance a future conservation park master plan that will involve the community and partners in helping to establish a long-term vision for the park and guide investment in infrastructure, visitor amenities, programs, and services, while ensuring that its natural systems and conservation functions are protected and enhanced.