The Municipality of Clarington is considering five options for the future of the Camp 30 Cafeteria Building following the release of a detailed Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) presented to council on June 16.
The historic Cafeteria Building, part of the nationally-recognized Camp 30 site, has suffered significant deterioration in recent years. In response, council directed staff in October 2024 to undertake a comprehensive assessment that considers alternatives to full restoration. The study also includes cost estimates, potential mitigation measures, and consultation with the Heritage Committee and the Jury Lands Foundation.
Camp 30 is a former World War II prisoner-of-war camp, prior to which it served as a training school for delinquent boys. It is the last intact WWII POW camp in Canada, and was designated a National Historic Site in 2013.
The five proposed alternatives are:
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Partial retention with new building inside (Active Use)
This option would retain and stabilize the building’s exterior masonry walls and construct a new structure inside. The interior would include replacement windows and could serve as a park washroom, community meeting area, concession facility, or commemorative space.
Estimated cost: $7.7 million -
Partial retention with no new structure (Passive Use)
This alternative would stabilize the exterior walls and maintain the structure as a commemorative “ruin”. The interior could function as a pavilion, picnic area, community garden, or similar passive-use space.
Estimated cost: $2.5 million -
Building footprint delineation
This approach would use low “knee walls” or grade-level materials to outline the building’s original footprint, preserving a portion of the existing masonry with a concrete cap. Interpretive features and plantings could be included within the footprint.
Estimated cost: $1.57 million -
Complete demolition
The building would be removed entirely with no physical features remaining. Mitigation measures would include documentation and salvage planning to commemorate the site’s cultural heritage.
Estimated cost: $1.44 million -
Complete demolition with new sympathetic building
This option would involve demolishing the current building and constructing a new facility in its place that reflects the Prairie architectural style of the original. The new structure would include horizontal lines, flat or low-pitched roofing, and compatible cladding materials.
Estimated cost: $8.8 million
Each option includes proposed mitigation measures such as archaeological assessments, conservation or design guidelines, and a commemoration plan. These efforts aim to preserve the site’s historic value even if full restoration is not pursued.
Clarington council directed the preparation of the HIA in October 2024. The Cafeteria Building, constructed in the 1920s, is one of several heritage buildings on the Camp 30 site and is valued for its Prairie Style design and role in Canadian military history.
Next steps include further council deliberation and public consultation. Amendments to the Official Plan may be required depending on which alternative is selected.