A group of approximately 100 gathered at the Port Elgin Main Beach October 5 with concerns about the proposed Crescent Village.

Hub Staff

A group of approximately 100 people gathered at the Port Elgin Main Beach October 5 to hear from, and take part in, a demonstration by the Port Elgin Beach Preservers' (PEBP) and their concerns around the proposed waterfront revitalization project.

Spokesperson Dan Frank addressed the crowd during Pumpkinfest weekend and reiterated concerns expressed through a Letter to the Editor published October 4.

"Port Elgin Beach Preservers is a group of concerned taxpayers, homeowners, cottagers, and visitors who are strongly in favour of beautifying and revitalizing this beautiful beachfront," said Frank. "We want the best sustainable plan for the beachfront."

Concerns around the current proposal included the size and scope of the project in comparison to the current footprint, financial viability, environmental impact, as well as the lack of an annual survey as recommended in the 2013 Waterfront Master Plan.

The potential impact on sight lines as well as beach access, "all the reasons people come [to the Port Elgin Main Beach]," were also mentioned.

"When I say [our beautiful waterfront], I don't mean 'mine,' this beachfront belongs to us all, everyone who loves coming here, making an already great destination for thousands of people every year," said Frank.

In addition to reissuing the Request for Proposal and amending the timeline, the PEBP believe that the Town of Saugeen Shores should hold off making a decision until the results of a tourism study, which is due to Council later this fall, has been reviewed.

Frank alerted those in attendance to upcoming council meetings on October 15 and October 28 as well as a planning committee meeting on October 21.

"It is important that we keep on fighting to make sure that the revitalization plan is done right," said Frank. "We want it done right. Do it right."

See: Village square proposed for Port Elgin Main Beach

Waterfront public meeting well attended

Community feedback concerning waterfront development reviewed

Editor's Note: The exact footprint of the proposal is not known until renderings are made available. Proponents have said they are taking public feedback into account prior to submitting final drawings. Renderings will be made public ahead of Council's decision. 

Dan Frank addressed a crowd of approximately 100 at an October 5 demonstration at the Port Elgin Main Beach.

Buttons were distributed to those in attendance.

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