The Municipality of Port Hope has announced the completion of a major phase of the West Beach remediation project, marking important progress in the community’s ongoing waterfront revitalization.
The project, part of the Port Hope Area Initiative and delivered by Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, began in late 2022 with extensive preparation and soil removal. Between January 2023 and May 2024, more than 47,000 tonnes of low-level radioactive waste and soil were removed, highlighting the scale of the cleanup and commitment to safety.
As part of this phase, a larger parking lot was created and the eastern portion of West Beach reopened last year. Temporary closures this spring allowed for additional landscaping, new plantings, and the installation of a new playground.
“West Beach has always been a place where residents gather to enjoy the beauty of our waterfront,” said Mayor Olena Hankivsky. “Thanks to the progress achieved through the Port Hope Area Initiative, this space has been revitalized and improved with new features that make it even more welcoming.”
Future work is planned for the western section of West Beach in 2026. During that stage, there may be brief road closures to accommodate trucks, but once complete, the access road will be converted into a scenic trail. A shade structure is also planned for the southeast corner of the site, offering a new gathering space for residents and visitors.
The Municipality thanked residents for their patience and support, noting that West Beach is once again a vibrant, accessible, and enjoyable destination.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
