At a special Cobourg Town Council Meeting, Council unanimously voted to close Victoria Beach immediately until August 31st, 2020 in efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19 within our community.
After a lengthy two and a half-hour debate, including Council, Town of Cobourg Staff, Cobourg Police, HKPR District Health Unit, local representatives and citizens, it was voted on to have town staff erect fencing and signage along the beach perimeter by the weekend.
While other concerns were raised around the canteen, campground and marina, Mayor John Henderson reminded everyone that this meeting was to vote on the closure of the beach grounds strictly and that other closers and recommendations will be discussed at another meeting.
Signage indicating the closure will also be added to streets leading into the downtown area as well on the 401 into Cobourg, upon MTO approval.
In addition to the motion, a report to Council will be provided at the June 22, 2020 Committee of the Whole with statistics of waterfront area activities and other concerns that arises due to the closure. Plus, how the Town could reopen the beach with restricted use, along with costing estimates associated with the reopening of the beach for Council approval.
Cobourg Town Council would like to thank citizens for their input as a decision was made in the interest of safety for community members and visitors.
The beach closure will not impact Victoria Park, the boardwalk, the West Beach or other surrounding public spaces. Bylaw and Police enforcement will continue to ensure that everyone complies with provincial health guidelines, including physical distancing.
More to come.
