Construction of the Cedar Crescent Village (CCV) project at the Port Elgin waterfront is set to begin.
The Town of Saugeen Shores received notice from 2706913 Ontario Inc. that construction will start on January 3, 2025.
The project is a public-private partnership combining commercial, recreational, and public spaces. Plans include retail and dining venues, a gamespace, an indoor farmer’s market that doubles as a concert and event hall, and additional amenities.
Mayor Luke Charbonneau emphasized the project’s importance.
“With this development, we are continuing to build an outstanding waterfront destination that supports both community needs and economic growth," he said. "Cedar Crescent Village is a cornerstone of our Waterfront Master Plan.”
The project’s phased construction has achieved several regulatory approvals. Building permits for the north and south phases were issued in March and December, respectively, finalizing structural designs and ensuring compliance with Ontario’s building codes. The Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority and the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks have also approved the development, including granting a Permit to Take Water in 2022.
Phase One focuses on the north building, featuring public washrooms, an ice cream store, and a partially enclosed “gamespace” offering year-round activities. Phase Two includes a restaurant and the indoor market venue. Construction timelines adhere to a two-year completion requirement from the date of the initial building permit.
While the CCV project has faced scrutiny and legal challenges over the years, the Town has consistently defended its processes. Critics, including local residents and legal professionals, have raised concerns about the handling of surplus land declarations and lease agreements. However, the Ontario Superior Court dismissed a lawsuit in 2023, affirming the Town’s processes.
Cedar Crescent Village is expected to generate annual lease payments over $82,000 based on the development’s footprint. Updates on the project’s progress can be found on the Town of Saugeen Shores’ website at saugeenshores.ca/CCV.