Improved access to nature and greenspace near where people live, work, and play is vital to their wellbeing. National urban parks benefit biodiversity and are a natural solution to help offset the impacts of climate change.
Today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, and Danny Breen, Mayor of St. John's, announced the signing of a Statement of Collaboration confirming their shared commitment to explore options for the creation of a national urban park in St. John's.
The new park would improve access to nature and greenspace for residents of St. John's as well as visitors and provide opportunities to amplify and honour Indigenous voices and stories. It would also create jobs, strengthen the local economy, and complement local and regional tourism.
The path toward designation of a national urban park in St. John's will be explored over the coming years through meaningful collaboration and cooperation with partners and stakeholders. As potential sites are assessed, possible connections to existing heritage places administered by Parks Canada, including Signal Hill National Historic Site and Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site, may be considered.
National urban parks provide habitat for animals, including species at risk, and can serve as crucial corridors for wildlife. They are great examples of nature-based climate solutions, helping to cool cities and absorb rainwater during extreme weather events. They contribute to Canada's climate change objectives by sequestering carbon, and to the Government of Canada's commitment to conserve 30 per cent of lands and waters in Canada by 2030.
As the collaboration advances, Parks Canada and the City of St. John's will engage and work with other key local and regional organizations and land holders to ensure the potential park protects nature, connects people with nature and advances reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
