Located within a residential neighbourhood in Lions Bay, Kelvin Grove is one of
the lower mainland's most cherished shore dives. There is ample parking,
washrooms with running water and easy ocean access via a short path leading to a
protected bay. Underwater explorers are treated to a deep rock wall with plenty
of cracks, ledges and overhangs to investigate. Kelvin Grove is bursting with
life and is one of the best sites in the area to find irish lords, tiger
rockfish and many species of nudibranch.
In July 2009, a bylaw was enacted prohibiting non-resident divers from using
Kelvin Grove without a resident chaperon. Citing public nudity, urination and
rude behavior, Lions Bay Village Council quietly put the bylaw into the books
and ignited a public outcry. An unorganized campaign was launched by divers and
supportive residents using letters, emails and the Lions Bay community website
as a means to voice their opinions. This resulted in a great deal of negative
media attention for the Village of Lions Bay and divers alike.
The overwhelming public response resulted in the temporary suspension of the
controversial bylaw in October 2009. Since then, a noticeable change in diver
attitude has occurred. Realizing that access to Kelvin Grove (and potentially
other dive sites) is in jeopardy, divers have taken it upon themselves to ensure
that no rules are broken and any observed indiscretion by a fellow diver is
pointed out and corrected. During this time, the majority of Lions Bay residents
have shown their support with smiles, waves and friendly discussion with divers
as they gear up near the site.
The UCBC is currently maintaining open communication with Lions Bay Village
Council in an effort to permanently put this issue to rest. UCBC President Paul
Sim will be speaking on behalf of divers at the February 1, 2010 Village Council
meeting. Paul will request that the bylaw be removed and recreational divers
once again be allowed to enjoy Kelvin Grove. In return, the UCBC will work to
educate the dive community on the need for proper etiquette when visiting sites
such as Kelvin Grove. Specifically we would like to request that all divers
observe the posted park hours and parking regulations, and make use of the
provided washroom facilities. Additionally, dive shops will be asked not to
conduct group training at Kelvin Grove. |
