The Town of Comox is moving to the construction phase of the new Mack Laing viewing platform after the removal of the Shakesides building, with a Cultural Heritage Investigation Permit (CHIP) now in place.
The new viewing platform will be built on the existing foundation of Shakesides, allowing the community and visitors to enjoy the same views and vistas Mack Laing experienced while living there.
“Mack Laing Nature Park is a place of significant historical importance, and we remain committed to delivering this project with the collaboration of the K’ómoks First Nation while meeting all the requirements under both the Heritage Conservation Act and the K’ómoks First Nation Cultural Heritage Policy,” said Comox Mayor Nicole Minions. “We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors to experience and celebrate the park and platform in the fall of 2026.”
Back in the spring of 2023, the Supreme Court of BC approved a joint application by the Town of Comox and the BC Attorney General to vary one of the trusts left by Mack Laing, allowing the process of building the viewing platform. The variation results from years of planning and consultation with the community and K’ómoks First Nation.
The approved budget for this initiative is $680,600, including approximately $300,000 from Trust funds, with the remaining amount allocated in the 2026–2030 financial plan. This investment supports the Town’s Strategic Plan to expand public park spaces and enhance connectivity throughout the community.
The Town thanks the community for their patience and cooperation during the construction phase and reminds users of the trails to continue respecting any posted signage in the area while work is underway. For more information on the Mack Laing viewing platform, visit comox.ca/macklaingpark.
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Media Contact:
Nicole Minions, Comox Mayor
nminions@comox.ca
250-339-2202