By Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
Crews are continuing to remove debris and stabilize the area at 47 and 49 Queen St. N. in Tilbury as the Municipality of Chatham-Kent responds to ongoing safety concerns and public speculation about the site.
The municipality says a large portion of the debris has already been cleared and that building permits have been issued. Structural work is expected to begin soon.
Paul Lacina, director of building development services and chief building official for the municipality, told the Tilbury Times Reporter in a statement that representatives for the neighbouring properties at 45 and 55 Queen St. N. have submitted plans to address structural issues identified during the demolition of 47 and 49.
Fencing remains in place, and the sidewalk along Queen Street is open and safe for public use. Officials continue to monitor site conditions to ensure public safety.
Structural issues at the site first surfaced in 2022, when complaints were filed about a collapsing building. A structural engineer hired by the municipality later confirmed a partially collapsed roof and other major failures at 47 and 49 Queen St. N., deeming the buildings unsafe and unfit for occupancy.
An order to remedy the unsafe conditions was issued, but when the property owner failed to complete the required repairs, demolition was ordered. During the process, engineers identified structural defects in the neighbouring buildings at 45 and 55 Queen St. N., prompting a pause in demolition work.
Stabilization efforts were required before demolition could continue. The municipality then issued additional orders to remedy and prohibit occupancy at the affected properties.
Lacina said property owners have since submitted work plans, allowing remediation to proceed.
“We appreciate the community’s cooperation and want to assure everyone that safety remains the top priority,” he said.
In an April 25 update to the public, municipal officials said they had been in contact with the owners’ insurer to confirm a plan to stabilize 45 and 55 Queen St. as soon as possible.
The municipality says that on Feb. 3, the insurer informed officials it had received an engineering report with recommendations for addressing structural concerns at the neighbouring properties.
Ward 1 Coun. Melissa Harrigan said delays in resolving the issues at 47 and 49 Queen St. have been frustrating, but efforts are ongoing.
“The length of time it has taken to resolve the issues at 47–49 Queen St. has been frustrating for all involved,” she said. “This update clarifies the current state and the complexities involved. I am actively working with staff to ask how Chatham-Kent can expedite a solution for our downtown.”
Chatham-Kent is urging all involved parties to move quickly, citing the high-profile location and ongoing concerns from residents and downtown business owners.
“There has been a lot of chatter on social media about the site,” said Armano Thomos, a local business owner.
The municipality is encouraging residents to visit its website for updates.
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