The pathway along the north shore of Ambrel Lake is closed to pedestrians starting Thursday, January 22, 2026, while the City completes emergency ice and structural repairs. The closure affects the boardwalk section near the picnic shelter and extends for approximately 300 metres along the lake edge. Crews expect to finish the work by mid-February.
Wrenford's freeze-thaw cycles over the past month caused significant buckling in the wooden decking and loosened several support brackets. The Parks & Trails team inspected the area on Tuesday and determined that the surface is no longer safe for public use. The City has hired a licensed contractor to replace the damaged boards, re-torque the fasteners, and treat the remaining timber with a winter-grade preservative.
"We prioritise visitor safety above all else, which is why we closed the path as soon as our inspectors flagged the uneven surfaces," says Maya Chen-Watson, Parks Planner. "These repairs ensure the boardwalk remains sturdy and accessible for the busy spring and summer seasons ahead."
During the closure, pedestrians should use the main gravel trail that circles the rest of the park. The playground and picnic shelter remain open, but visitors will need to access them via the main loop. Dogs must remain on-leash on the gravel trail, as the boardwalk is the only off-leash route in the immediate vicinity.
Residents who notice icy patches or other hazards on the main trail can report them through our online maintenance form. The City's winter maintenance crews patrol the area daily, and the Winter Trail Clearing Programme covers the park's selected routes from November to March. If you see a fall risk, please submit a report so we can address it before someone gets hurt.
For the latest updates on park conditions, trail status, and seasonal closures, visit Parks & Trails.