As Dundurn Park was very close to the waterfront, plans were offered to link it to the waterfront to form a Dundurn beach. Although two sewers entered the water not far from this area, they were considered very small, and, therefore, would not affect the quality of the swimming water. A consultant, Dr. J. Edgar Davey, noted that sewage works would probably be built nearby in the near future. He was sure that, if they were built, they could clear up any sewer problem that might arise.
The first definite plan to open a Dundurn beach for $25,000 was suggested in 1918 by Alderman T. M. Wright. However, the railway company that owned the train tracks between Dundurn and the water would not give permission to build a tunnel under its property. A second set of plans in 1924 suggested that wood and metal steps and a 142 foot bridge could be built over the tracks to a half mile boardwalk and bathhouse for the same price. However, the railway still would not give the City permission to cross its land, and would not lease the beach for longer than one year.
Later that same year, the Canadian National Railway (CNR) bought the tracks between Dundurn and the water. Excited that the railway was now publicly owned, Mr. Charles Heming proposed a plan to build bathhouse with three stories - the first for a boathouse and bathing pavilion, the second for a restaurant, and the third with a roof garden for open air dancing. However, like the private railway company the CNR would not permit a beach to be built along the rail yard bayfront.
The idea of swimming at Dundurn was laid to rest until the summer of 1961. 200 area residents held an open air meeting, suggesting that a skating rink/swimming pool be built in Dundurn Park. However, as Dundurn was thought to be more important for its historic value than its recreational value, the idea was never approved. Instead, children in the area were soon offered access to a wading pool at Victoria Park.