The City of Welland is planning improvements to Cooks Mills Community Centre and Park to create a more welcoming, accessible, and flexible space for recreation, community gatherings, and outdoor enjoyment.

Building on a completed community needs assessment, the project will guide future improvements to the community centre and surrounding parkland. Planned improvements include enhanced indoor and outdoor amenities, improved accessibility and connections throughout the site, and natural features that support the park's long-term sustainability.

The project is now moving into the detailed design phase, where the preferred concepts will be refined into construction-ready plans. Updates will be shared as the project progresses through design, construction planning, and future phases of redevelopment.

Explore the sections below to learn more about the project, what's being planned, and what to expect as work progresses.

The City has completed a community needs assessment for Cooks Mills Community Centre and Park, identifying the improvements and amenities that will help meet current and future community needs.

The project is now entering the detailed design phase. A consulting team will be selected to develop the preferred concepts into detailed plans that will guide future construction and phased implementation.

The redevelopment of Cooks Mills Community Centre and Park is intended to create a more welcoming, accessible, and versatile community space. Current plans include:

Community spaces

• New community centre with an improved entrance
• Public washrooms
• Flexible gathering spaces

Recreation

• Improved cricket field
• Enhanced recreation rink
• Open play lawn

Accessibility and connections

• Paved walkways
• Gravel trails
• Improved parking and site access

Natural features

• Pollinator gardens
• Naturalization areas
• Planting beds
• Preserved forested areas
• Tree planting and retention

Please note, features shown are subject to refinement as the project moves through the detailed design process.

The improvements to Cooks Mills Community Centre and Park are planned to be completed in phases. This approach is intended to allow the community centre and park to remain open and available to residents as much as possible while work is underway.

As detailed design and construction planning continue, more information will be shared about project phasing, temporary impacts, and any changes to park or facility access.

The project will continue through the detailed design phase, where the preferred concepts will be refined into detailed plans that support future construction.

As the project advances, the City will share updates on design progress, construction planning, timelines, and future opportunities for residents to stay informed and engaged.