The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks is inviting comments on a proposal to allow for the extension of cottage lot leases in Rondeau Provincial Park.
If approved, this would allow existing cottage lots in the park, located on the shores of Lake Erie 40 kilometers southeast of Chatham, to remain for an additional period until Dec. 31, 2024.
The would require changes to the Rondeau Provincial Park management plan and extension of existing leases and licenses.
Cottage lot leases were originally established in the park between 1894 and 1950. There are currently 278 cottage lots under lease for private, non-commercial use.
“This extension would allow the ministry time to consult on a future option for the continued leasing of cottage lots in Rondeau Provincial Park,” stated a letter from Ontario Parks.
The letter added that the park protects “significant natural and cultural values and offers exceptional recreational and heritage appreciation opportunities.”
Aside from enabling an extension of existing leases for Rondeau cottage lots, no other changes to the park’s management plan are being proposed.
While the Rondeau cottagers own their buildings, they don’t own the land. The cottagers have instead remained in the park on periodic, short-term lease extensions, although there have been discussions in recent years for a more long-term solution, such as looking into the feasibility of selling the lots to the cottagers.
A representative for the Rondeau Cottagers Association couldn’t be reached for immediate comment on the latest lease extension proposal.
There has also been opposition over the years from those who don’t believe the cottages belong in the provincial park, citing environmental concerns.
The proposal is posted on the Environmental Registry of Ontario at ero.ontario.ca (notice number 019-6142). Comments will be accepted until Nov. 25.
Comments can be submitted online, or by mail to Adam Gryck, Ontario Parks – Protected Areas Section, 300 Water St., 6th Floor, Peterborough, ON, K9J 3C7