The Town of Comox has purchased a 2.6-hectare property near the downtown core at 1413 Balmoral Avenue to create a new public green space called Newson Family Nature Park.

While the existing house and outbuildings will be removed, many features of the property will be preserved. Planned park features include memorial trees, benches, a portion of the existing Dahlia gardens, a labyrinth monument, and a stone masonry base with an anchor and plaque recognizing the history of the Newson and Fairbairn families.

The property will be closed to the public during the six-month conversion process and is expected to open as a public park in fall 2026.

Located adjacent to other green spaces including MacDonald Wood Park and Mack Laing Nature Park, the acquisition helps create a large central park area that aligns with the Town’s long-term vision for the community.

The property was purchased for $3.48 million using Development Cost Charges, meaning the acquisition will not impact residential property taxes.

Richelle Newson, speaking on behalf of the family, described the land as the family’s legacy and said that sharing it with the community is a meaningful way to honour past generations. She noted that her parents, George and Kella-Lee Newson, were known for their generosity, service, and commitment to the community, and expressed appreciation for the partnership with the Town of Comox to preserve the property for future generations.

The Town of Comox will continue to provide updates on the Newson Family Nature Park project through its website.