Editor:

Re: Residents voice opposition to zip lines, Nov. 13.

While I have nothing against organizations operating zip lines – in fact, I have used and enjoyed them – I do object to them being situated in public parks.

The first indication I had that a proposal was under consideration to allow WildPlay Element Parks to operate a private business in Redwood Park was when I read about it this evening in the Peace Arch News.

I would like to register my opposition to this travesty of allowing a private company to establish a commercial venture in a publicly owned park. Why are they not being encouraged to purchase a suitable site and then implement their plans? Why should taxpayers of Surrey be underwriting the cost of this venture while, at the same time, changing the nature of this pristine area forever? Whatever happened to the City of Parks theme and logo, or is it to only be used when it is convenient?

I would like to register a resounding no to this proposal and ask that, should a similar situation arise, the public meeting be held in a location easily accessible to the public and that efforts be taken to ensure the public receives ample notification.

Otherwise you risk giving the appearance of trying to slip a proposal unnoticed through the back door, and all the negative ramifications and innuendos that accompany such a move.

Ken Harrap, Surrey

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Re: Consulting the public without... listening, Nov. 13.

Further to Frank Bucholtz’s column, the proposal – run by a private, for-profit company in Surrey’s Redwood Park – is apparently to be rammed through council in January 2010 with a big push from the senior management at Surrey parks board.

There were about a hundred people at the Hall’s Prairie Elementary meeting Nov. 10. There was a lot of anger in the room about the perceived habitat destruction that will undoubtedly take place if this venture proceeds. I heard only two in the audience speak in favor and everyone else was against, asking questions and speaking for more than two hours, after a weak, almost-inaudible and barely-visible presentation from the company involved.

They mentioned tree preservation, but the main topic from concerned residents was the fate of deer, owls, raccoons, bats and raptors living in the park. Their numbers in Redwood Park have increased substantially since the destruction of their former habitat for industrial lands at Campbell Heights.

To accommodate those who wish to sling wires, netting, obstacles and lighting through the trees, Surrey intends to demolish revenue-producing city-owned houses, at least one with substantial amounts spent on recent upgrading and another of historical significance, once owned by legendary weaver Honey Hooser, whose works take pride of place at Surrey Museum and Buckingham Palace.

It was pointed out that careful and proper impact research has not been done, and proposed parking for 60 cars will have a kamikaze-like exit directly onto the major north/south truck route, Highway 15.

I hope those affected will take up their cudgels and mount a mighty protest against this high-handed and thoughtless treatment of people and animals.

Richard Allan, Surrey