Update on demolition activity on former Goodyear lands in Bowmanville

Clarington, Ontario – The Municipality of Clarington is aware of recent demolition activities at the former Goodyear lands in Bowmanville, causing concerns about hazardous substances that may be present on the site from years of industrial activity. There is currently no approved development plan for these lands, nor an approved demolition permit for the main building.

As soon as the Municipality was made aware of the demolition activities, staff issued an Order to Comply under the Ontario Building Code, and demolition activity has since ceased. Clarington Fire and Emergency Services has also issued several Notices to require the owner to secure the site due to safety and fire hazard concerns.

Clarington staff are actively discussing the situation with the property owner, as well as the Provincial government and the Durham Region Health Department, to evaluate safety and environmental concerns. Clarington also intends to hire an independent expert to monitor the site and provide reassurance that the property owner is following safe and legal methods of demolition.

“Clarington Council is committed to responsible growth—supporting economic development while protecting the environment,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. “We expect our partners in the development community to work in collaboration with us to ensure redevelopment is environmentally responsible. I have requested that staff use every tool available to us to ensure all required measures are in place for demolition, in accordance with provincial regulations, to protect the local environment and neighbours in the area.”

The former Goodyear lands are located within the Bowmanville East Urban Centre Secondary Plan area, which is currently being updated by the Municipality and set to return to Council in December. This plan provides policies that will guide development in the area, including environmental studies specific to the Goodyear lands. Learn more at www.clarington.net/BowmanvilleEast.

Media inquiries:
Municipality of Clarington
Melissa Westover, Manager of Communications
905-623-3379 ext. 2019 | mwestover@clarington.net