The following article has been submitted by concerned residents regarding the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula’s (MNBP) handling of the property at 213 Big Tub Road—a proposed location for a municipally funded parking lot and parkette.
Multiple letters of opposition have been formally sent with a list of over 100 names of local taxpayers primarily from, but not restricted to, Big Tub Road and China Cove. Our understanding from CAO Peggy Van- Mierlo West on behalf of Council is that:
1) further action is currently on hold
2) there has not been any further budget approved to date for the proposal
3) further decisions and public input will await the election of the next municipal council in October 2026.
This matter raises important concerns about public consultation, land use transparency, neighborhood equity, environmental protection, SON land claims, and the growing impacts of over-tourism. Whether or not you live near Big Tub Road, this issue sets a precedent that could affect all MNBP taxpayers with property near undeveloped road allowances.
We encourage all MNBP taxpayers to stay informed and consider taking action.
Background on the Proposal
Taxpayers first became aware of this proposal through an MNBP Council agenda item on December 10, 2024, related to the MLEO 24-10 Parking Report (page 18).
It was revealed that Council had already purchased one-half of a pie-shaped lot (213 Big Tub Road) for $180,000 plus a large charitable tax receipt. Partial Lot 20 has no direct road access and only about 40 feet of shoreline. This presumably involved a fair market value process to justify the purchase and the issuance of a charitable tax receipt.
Despite being zoned for four-season residential use, the Municipality has proceeded to rezone the parcel to “Open Space” without signage or notification to neighbours. The stated intention is to construct a “parking lot and parkette” to fulfill the seller’s request to keep Part Lot 20 undeveloped in perpetuity.
Key Concerns About the Proposal
1) Big Tub Road is already highly congested. Adding a 25-car parking lot will not meet tourism demand and will increase traffic and safety risks for pedestrians and cyclists.
2) There has been an inability to manage Big Tub Lighthouse shoreline tourist usage, resulting in regular trespassing and diminished private property enjoyment.
3) There was no public consultation before the land was acquired and rezoned—an action we believe is unique within this municipality.
4) The 213 Big Tub shoreline has significant water safety concerns. It is adjacent to a navigable waterway used by our local tour boat operators as well as yachters visiting Tobermory for the first time. It does not have a secured no-wake zone, like what exists at the Lighthouse to protect water users. The Cape Hurd channel is very exposed to sudden wind and fog, making inflatable water craft, kayaks or canoes an unpredictable safety hazard for first time visitors.
5) The shoreline space (~100 feet) is insufficient to accommodate the likely volume of users arriving by car, foot, or bike and promotes day trip visitors to the middle of a residentially zoned neighbourhood.
6) The proposal would sever an important environmental corridor that currently connects the mainland to Fathom Five National Marine Park.
7) There has been no confirmed consultation with the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) to assess cultural or archaeological significance.
8) Big Tub Road continues to shoulder an unfair burden in managing over-tourism and has been doing more than their fair share to date.
Why This Matters to All MNBP Taxpayers
1) This is the first instance of Council moving to develop a municipal road allowance, all without public consultation. If this sets a precedent, any property adjacent to an undeveloped road allowance could face similar action.
2) With GTA tourism expected to increase, the time has come for a comprehensive solution. We support the implementation of an “Active Transportation Plan” that reduces congestion, protects the environment, and enhances the visitor experience. The $180,000 already spent could be redirected to support such a plan.
How MNBP Taxpayers Can Support Fair Planning and Public Process
1) Join the Community Effort
Add your name to our growing list of residents opposed to the 213 Big Tub Road development.
Email: mike.sehl@icloud.com
2) Send a Letter to Council
Write a short letter expressing your concerns. Ready-to-use templates are available upon request. Email mike.sehl@icloud.com to request one. Every letter makes a difference.
Sub Committee of concerned residents,
Alicia Jeffery, Chris Fulton, Bridget Luca, Mike Sehl
