A proposal to install pickleball courts in a south Winnipeg park has been officially withdrawn by the developer behind the plan, following significant public concern and opposition.
Plan Scrapped After Public Backlash
The controversial plan, which was being considered for Henteleff Park in the Fort Garry area, is now off the table. The private developer, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed in recent reports, has formally backed down. The proposal had sparked debate among residents who use the park for its current passive recreational purposes.
While specific details of the withdrawn proposal are not fully public, the concept involved the construction of dedicated courts for pickleball, one of North America's fastest-growing sports. The park, pictured in late December 2025, is a green space valued by the local community.
Community Concerns and Next Steps
The decision to withdraw the plan comes after the potential development raised flags with area residents and community groups. Common concerns regarding such projects often include increased noise, changes to park traffic and parking, and the loss of general-purpose green space.
No new proposal has been announced to replace the pickleball court plan. The future of any potential active recreational developments in Henteleff Park remains uncertain and would likely require a new consultation process with the community and City of Winnipeg officials.
This incident highlights the ongoing balancing act municipal governments face between adding infrastructure for popular sports and preserving existing neighbourhood park character. The withdrawal indicates that community feedback continues to play a pivotal role in local development decisions.
