The Shakesides building is gone and will soon be replaced by a viewing platform.
The Town of Comox, said construction has begun on the new Mack Laing viewing platform following the removal of the home, with a cultural heritage investigation permit now in place.
Comox Mayor Nicole Minions said the town looks forward to welcoming visitors to the park and platform this fall.
“Mack Laing Nature Park is a place of significant historical importance and we remain committed to delivering this project with the collaboration of the K’ómoks First Nation while meeting all the requirements under both the Heritage Conservation Act and the K’ómoks First Nation Cultural Heritage Policy.”
The platform is being built on the existing foundation of Shakesides, allowing residents and visitors a chance to enjoy the same views Mack Laing experienced while living there.
In 2023 the Supreme Court of British Columbia approved a joint application by the Town of Comox and the B.C. attorney general to vary one of the trusts left by Mack Laing, allowing the construction of a viewing platform.
The approved budget for the platform is just over $680 000, including about $300 000 from trust funds, with the remaining amount allocated in the 2026‑30 financial plan.
Trail users in the area are asked to respect any posted signage while work is underway.
