Northern Bruce Peninsula is demolishing a building in Tobermory to allow for a potential new parking lot.
Council approved the demolition of the former Tobermory Daycare building at 3 Centennial Drive during its meeting on Monday.
It was also approved that funding be included in next year’s budget deliberations for a gravel parking lot with washroom facilities, and a shuttle service at the property.
CAO Peggy Van Mierlo-West says in a report this comes recognizing the ongoing parking pressures in high-demand areas of Tobermory.
The property on Centennial Drive has been identified as a key location to expand parking infrastructure to meet the needs of both residents and visitors to the area.
Staff are proposing the work at 3 Centennial Drive be done in three phases, with the first scheduled for this year, which is the demolition of the existing building.
The second phase, set for next year, will include the installation of a gravel parking lot as well as accessible washroom facilities, and launching a shuttle service. The expected timeline for this phase is in the spring of 2026.
The last phase will be guided by how much revenue is generated by the parking lot. Once a sufficient amount of funds is reached, the municipality will undergo a community engagement process to assist in plans with a potential permanent facility, which could include a tourism centre, meeting space, and other public amenities.
This phase is planned for after 2027.
“By prioritizing the phased development of 3 Centennial Drive – starting with demolition, followed by the lot construction, washroom facilities, and a shuttle service-the municipality can effectively address immediate parking pressures while laying the groundwork for long-term improvements, including the potential for a permanent facility once sufficient reserves have been established,” says Van Mierlo-West in her report.
Additionally, the municipality is currently considering 213 Big Tub Road as an alternative parking site.
Given several logistical challenges, however, council approved during its meeting to hold off on making any further decisions.
