Striking a balance between development, community access, recreational enjoyment and protection of river corridors.
The Brandon Assiniboine River Corridor Master Planning process was a community based initiative, which combined the planning and design skills of Lombard North Group with the ‘felt needs’ of the residents of Brandon. The result represented a unique ecological approach to master planning. Our consultation model was embraced by the community and enabled the full interplay and understanding of opportunities and constraints through the perspectives of multiple community interest of groups. The result was a body of work and direction for river corridor revitalization, of which we are particularly proud. The Master Plan responded to the challenge of resolving competing interests by striking a balance between development, community access, recreational enjoyment and protection of natural river corridors and habitats. The plan was successful in attracting over $5 million in funding from senior government and the private sector. Lombard North Group, on behalf of the City, completed the design and management of the six year implementation strategy which included the design and project management of the Pedestrian Foot Bridge crossing the Assiniboine River, development of the Riverbank Discovery Centre and creation of the Eleanor Kidd Gardens. The significance of this project, its successful integration of public and private partnerships and positive impact upon the quality of life in the City of Brandon was recognized in 2003 with Manitoba’s Award for Planning Excellence.