The potential implementation of a designated swim-only area at Erieau Beach may need a life preserver.
The purpose of a swim-only area is to separate swimmers from watercraft to keep the swimmers safe. A swim-only area is a clearly marked area using buoys, with or without a connecting rope. Watercraft, including windsurfing equipment and paddle boards, are not permitted in this area.
Chatham-Kent Manager of Parks and Recreation Ian Clark told CK News Today a survey seeking public feedback on the matter garnered only 35 comments between the end of June and July 20, 2023.
Clark said the low response is disappointing, but the issue will move forward to council for consideration.
Clark said 77 per cent of the people who responded to the survey are leaning towards a swim-only area.
"Some said they would like a bigger size to take up more of the beach, some said paddle boards should be exempted from the safe swim area, and others said to move it down a bit further East because they still want to use the West parking lot to load their water craft," said Clark.
Current options being considered include a 70-metre swim area roughly between Nichols Avenue and Galbraith Avenue, or a 130-metre area roughly between Nichols Avenue and Trojek Avenue.
Those who didn't support a swim area said the money could be used elsewhere such as beach maintenance, life guards, and enforcement.
The municipality was looking for input including potential impacts on the use of the very popular Erieau Beach, the size of the swim area and location, the type of infrastructure used, overall support or opposition, or other factors that should be considered by the Municipality.
Clark also noted the municipality has also been working with the Erieau Community Association (ECA) who is interested in a roped-off swim area.
He said the cost of the swim-only area depends on the size of it and the ECA recommended a smaller area than the conceptual design outlined to council at the end of May to keep the price tag low.
The cost of the swim-only area will be debated during the budget process this Fall.
Clark said he has been in touch with upper levels of government regarding the approval process if necessary and added those regulatory approvals should be quick if the project is approved council.
If all of the approvals are in place, a swim area may be open at Erieau Beach as early as next Summer.
