Harmston Park is a ~3 acre greenspace located on the former School District 71 site. The City of Courtenay took ownership of the property in 2016, recognizing its potential to help meet growing demand for parkland—especially with increased housing density expected under new Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing regulations.

Classified as a neighbourhood park in the City’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan, Harmston Park is part of the broader Downtown Vitalization Local Area Plan (DVLAP) currently underway. The DVLAP includes four distinct planning districts: Riverfront, Downtown Core, Fitzgerald Corridor and Harmston Park.

Through the DVLAP planning process, and in consultation with the community, the Harmston Park district concept will:

  • set a vision for the neighbourhood park reimagined as a community park
  • explore ideas for programming and public space activation within the park
  • consider opportunities for higher-density housing and innovative uses for adjacent municipal lands
  • look to strengthen connections to nearby trails and city greenspaces

Harmston Park Plan Timeline

The Harmston Park district concept will inform a more detailed design process launching later this fall.

To learn more about the Downtown Vitalization Local Area Plan project and take the survey until June 4, 2025, visit:

engagecomoxvalley.ca/courtenay-downtown-plan.


Watch this space for updates over the coming months for more information and opportunities to get involved with the Harmston Park Plan!