By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
After years of delays, stalled progress, and public frustration, demolition work is officially resuming this week on a cluster of structurally compromised buildings along Queen Street North in downtown Tilbury. Beginning Tuesday, September 2, crews will begin demolishing 55 Queen Street North, with work expected to be completed within two weeks. The long-stalled demolition of 47 and 49 Queen Street North is also anticipated to resume in conjunction with this effort.
The renewed activity marks a significant step forward in addressing safety concerns that have plagued the site since 2022, when complaints first surfaced about a collapsing structure. A structural engineer hired by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent later confirmed a partially collapsed roof and other major failures at 47 and 49 Queen Street North, deeming the buildings unsafe and unfit for occupancy. An order to remedy the conditions was issued, but when the property owner failed to complete the required repairs, demolition was ordered.
However, during the initial demolition process, engineers identified structural defects in the neighbouring buildings at 45 and 55 Queen Street North, prompting a halt in work and triggering additional safety reviews. Stabilization efforts were required before demolition could continue, and the municipality issued further orders to prohibit occupancy and ensure public safety.
Now, with demolition contractors on site and plans in place, the municipality is moving forward. Minor traffic disruptions are expected during the demolition period, but Queen Street North and Superior Street will remain open. Residents are urged to use caution in the area and avoid the demolition site.
The owners of 45 Queen Street North have been issued a building permit for repairs to the wall and structural elements of that property, with work anticipated to begin later this fall. These repairs are part of a broader effort to stabilize the surrounding area and address concerns raised during earlier phases of demolition.
Municipal officials have been working closely with property owners and their insurers to ensure that engineering recommendations are followed and that remediation efforts proceed safely. In an earlier statement, Paul Lacina, director of building development services and chief building official for Chatham-Kent, emphasized that safety remains the top priority.
“We appreciate the community’s cooperation and want to assure everyone that safety remains the top priority,” Lacina said.
Ward 1 Councillor Melissa Harrigan acknowledged the frustration felt by residents and business owners over the prolonged timeline but expressed optimism about the renewed progress.
“The length of time it has taken to resolve the issues at 47–49 Queen Street has been frustrating for all involved,” Harrigan 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.”
The site has been a focal point of public concern and social media discussion, with local business owners and residents calling for action. Fencing remains in place around the affected properties, and the sidewalk along Queen Street is open and safe for public use.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent continues to monitor site conditions and encourages residents to stay informed by visiting its website for updates. For media inquiries, contact Eric Labadie, Manager of Corporate Communications, at EricL@chatham-kent.ca.
As demolition resumes, officials hope the long-awaited progress will help restore confidence in the downtown core and pave the way for future revitalization.
