March 15 Update: Fire in Downtown Bowmanville

Update March 15 at 12:30 p.m. - The Ontario Fire Marshal (OFM) has completed the initial stage of its investigation at the fire scene and released the properties to the owners. Demolition crews will begin working to take down the remainder of building 69-75a this weekend, as the building has been deemed unsafe. King Street West, from Scugog Street to Silver Street, will remain closed into next week.

The structural integrity of the surrounding buildings will be assessed once the demolition is complete. Units 59 to 95 King Street West remain unsafe to enter, and security personnel will be onsite to secure the area. Affected residents and business owners should contact their property owner to understand next steps and timing for future access to the buildings.

We understand that the loss of this historic downtown building is difficult for many in our community. These properties are included on Clarington’s Cultural Heritage Resources List as ‘Primary’ properties, meaning they are among the best examples of a particular architectural style. Any future rebuild work by the property owner will require that materials, height, width, scale, colour, setback and design (including windows, doors and rooflines) need to be compatible and consistent with the surrounding buildings and streetscape.

The Region of Durham has advised that all displaced residents have been able to secure alternative temporary housing with friends or family or have arranged accommodations in nearby hotels. Residents will continue to receive counselling, social work support, and the distribution of gift cards thanks to generous donations from the community through the Salvation Army Bowmanville.

Residents can find the latest updates and FAQs at www.clarington.net/BowmanvilleFire. You can also subscribe to Clarington’s mailing list or follow Clarington on social media for ongoing updates.