(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
By Dan Jones, Northumberland 89.7 FM News, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.
A proposed multi-storey residential and commercial development in downtown Cobourg has received a lifeline after Council referred the matter to 2027.
The Balder Corporation, Fotenn Planning and Design, and Dez Capital are proposing 196-housing units with commercial space and 212 parking spots at 202 Second Street.
Sydney DiTomasso, a Senior Planner with Fortenn Planning, made a stunning request to open the agenda item indicating there was much disinformation about the height of the project, presenting photo illustrations that would dwarf Victoria Hall and be considerably noticed from the habour and marina.
She attempted to portray the actual scale of the development being considerably shorter, with a previous presentation in September 2025, stating the top would be in line with the middle of Victoria Hall’s bell tower.
The public have largely been opposed to the development. Approximately 50 people registered to speak to council last night, with at least one councillor explaining that they have been inundated with emails and letters from residents opposing the project.
At the start of the marathon 11-hour public meeting Mayor Lucas Cleveland asked whether the item should be moved to the top of the agenda, as it was clear the majority of the attendees were there to see how the vote would go. That idea was not accepted by Council.
DiTomasso stated the referral to next year would give Fortenn the opportunity to undertake broader public consultation.
Cleveland said he was ready to vote on the project, still opposed to the development, not changing his position from a September meeting.
“It’s a straight cut for me, it’s a no. This building doesn’t fit in our downtown, it doesn’t fit next to Victoria Hall,” He said Wednesday night. “I’ve heard loud and clear from every member of the public that this shouldn’t be going forward full stop.”
A recorded vote on the referral was held with Cleveland voting no. Nicole Beatty who is contesting for Mayor voted yes. All other Councillors voted for the referral, with Adam Bureau not participating in the debate, declaring a conflict of interest as his business and residence are close to that area.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
