The fire at the former Goodyear Lands has, in part, achieved what the landowner had earlier been trying to do — demolish the building (see below).
Clarington Emergency and Fire Services (CEFS) said crews determined that the fire began on the roof, which later collapsed into the building.
“As a safety precaution and to help ensure the fire was fully extinguished, excavators were brought in to remove a portion of damaged wall along the north side of the building,” said an update from the Municipality of Clarington yesterday.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Water Being Tested, Air Quality Fine
On the afternoon of October 13, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) attended the scene to evaluate environmental conditions. During its assessment, two water samples were collected from the Bowmanville Creek and submitted for analysis. During their scene assessment, the MECP determined that air-quality testing was not needed. MECP is continuing to work with the property owner, the statement said.
Due to extensive damage to the building, Clarington’s Deputy Chief Building Official has issued an “Order to Remedy Unsafe” under the Ontario Building Code. This order requires the landowner to demolish the building safely by April 30, 2026, in accordance with provincial regulations to protect the local environment and community.
Unauthorized Demolition
In August, Clarington has halted unauthorized demolition activities at the former Goodyear lands in Bowmanville due to concerns about potential hazardous materials and the lack of proper permits.
The municipality is urging residents to stay off the property as the building is structurally unstable and extremely dangerous. We are especially reminding teens and young adults not to enter the area or explore the site — it may look harmless from a distance, but hidden hazards like falling debris and unstable walls pose real risks, the municipality said.
There have been fires, vandalism and graffiti at the abandoned plant in the past.
Clarington Emergency and Fire Services were called to a fire at the former Goodyear Lands in downtown Bowmanville shortly after midnight on Monday, October 13.
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