The District of Sooke says it’s temporarily closing a popular park so crews can tend to damage caused by a wind storm earlier this month.
Whiffin Spit will be closed from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 22, to allow clean-up crews to clear debris along the trail, according to the district in a notice.
Both the trail and parking lot will be closed.
“This closure is necessary to facilitate the efficient and safe removal of debris, ensuring that the trail is in suitable condition for public use once the cleanup is complete,” the district said in the notice, which was issued Friday.
It was on Jan. 9 when Environment Canada warned of up to 90 km/h winds for Greater Victoria, West Vancouver Island and the Southern Gulf Islands.
The winds wreaked havoc, including in Sooke, where one family said strong gusts caused a tree to fall over onto their home and cause damage upwards of $25,000. A branch actually pieced through their bathroom ceiling. People in Sooke also experienced power outages, which resulted in school closures.
READ ALSO: $25K in repairs expected after tree crashes onto Sooke home during wind storm
The District of Sooke is apologizing for any inconvenience the closure at Whiffin Spit may cause and says it appreciates the public’s understanding.
“Your safety is our top priority, and we believe that this proactive measure will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable experience for all trail users in the near future,” the district added in the notice.
Whiffin Spit, situated between the Sooke Harbour and Juan de Fuca Strait, “offers a scenic coastal walk along the shoreline,” according to Victoria Trails.
“The area is popular with dog walkers and nature enthusiasts as wildlife such as shorebirds and sea lions can often be spotted during your walk.”
READ ALSO: Local parks to close as ‘popular TV series’ films in Sooke
Ethan Morneau
