The following letter was sent to MNBP Mayor and council.
Dear Mayor McIver and Council,
I see that the future of Cabot Head Road is scheduled for discussion during Monday’s Agenda.
After reviewing the report, I note that the document does not cast doubt on the municipality’s right to repair the road for other uses.
I believe the most effective first step for Council is to collectively decide whether the preservation of the Cabot Head Lighthouse for future generations is a priority of Council. If there is general agreement that the lighthouse must be saved, a dedicated plan should then be formulated. This plan could utilize one or a combination of the four options outlined in the report. Establishing this clear, collective goal—saving the lighthouse—shifts the focus from a “do nothing” approach to a proactive, goal-oriented strategy.
It is clear that the lighthouse cannot be saved without a sustainable economic model to cover its upkeep. The future of the lighthouse is directly tied to the future of the road; if the road is not repaired, the lighthouse has no economic viability and will continue to suffer from disrepair and eventual demolition. Over the last three years, the site has been broken into four times, resulting in smashed windows and doors.
In my view, the only viable long-term economic models are either a bike path alone or a hybrid version that combines a bike path with limited vehicular access and an entry fee onto the property. Regarding the necessary repairs, the existing roadbed—excluding two small washed-out areas—could be repaired at minimal cost for use solely as a bike path and limited service vehicle. Use by vehicles, however, will require more substantial work. Engineering plans for repairs do exist, as they were prepared at the request of the former bike path committee and are available to the municipality.
Additionally, I would like to make two points regarding financial context. First, municipal funds were allocated for the reconstruction of the Lion’s Head lighthouse. Second, since the road has been closed for the last six years, the municipality has not incurred the road maintenance costs that were associated with keeping the road open in the past.
Finally, if Council is concerned about the Dyers Bay community’s view, it is worth noting that a referendum held three years ago on converting the road to a trail was supported by 75% of the community.
I respectfully request that the Council prioritize a discussion on the importance of the lighthouse’s preservation—from a heritage and recreational perspective—before moving to a discussion on the future of the road.
I acknowledge that many issues need to be resolved before concrete action can be taken on the road or at the lighthouse. However, the current “do nothing” approach spells an end to this community treasure.
Respectfully submitted,
Mike Campbell
