Victoria Park Project
Victoria Park is one of Kincardine’s most cherished gathering spaces, serving as a venue for festivals, concerts, ceremonies, and community events throughout the year.
Following several years of community engagement, concept development, and council review, a preferred design has been selected for a new performance stage in Victoria Park. Construction is scheduled to begin in September 2026, with completion anticipated in October 2026.
Why this Project Matters
Victoria Park plays an important role as a community gathering space in downtown Kincardine. The existing gazebo has reached the end of its useful life and no longer meets the needs of modern programming and events.
The new covered performance stage will provide a more functional and accessible venue for community celebrations, cultural events, performances, and public gatherings. The design reflects community input and creates opportunities to enhance programming while preserving Victoria Park as a welcoming destination for residents and visitors.
By investing in this infrastructure, the Municipality is supporting vibrant public spaces, strengthening community connections, and ensuring Victoria Park continues to serve future generations.
Our Journey and Next Steps
2023
- Staff identified the need to replace the pavilion due to safety and accessibility concerns.
Early 2024
- During budget discussions, Council requested that new designs also improve accessibility throughout the park.
- Pl.ural Design Inc. was hired to create concept drawings.
June–October 2024
- Public engagement included two open houses, online surveys, and consultation with key committees and user groups.
- Over 200 responses shaped the early design work, emphasizing accessibility, heritage, and canopy preservation.
- A consolidated park redesign concept was presented to Council on October 23, 2024.
Late 2024
- Council decided not to proceed with a full park redesign. Instead, they directed staff to return to the original goal: replace the pavilion with a functional stage.
January 2025
- Council approved $60,000 for fountain and cannon repairs and to prepare construction drawings for a staging area.
- Staff have developed three design options for a new staging area at the west end of Victoria Park, based on user group needs and Council’s direction.
- Council chose Concept Design #2
- Enclosed storage
Max-Rib metal roofing
Kiln dried cedar
Port Orford Cedar columns with metal base
- Enclosed storage
The Victoria Park Project is moving into the implementation phase, with construction of the new performance stage scheduled to begin the week of September 14, 2026. Construction of the new stage is expected to take approximately three weeks, with project completion anticipated in October 2026.
To prepare the site for construction, Community Services staff will remove one tree within the project area by the end of June 2026. This work is necessary to accommodate the new stage and associated site improvements.
As part of the approved project, the existing gazebo will also be removed. To help minimize disruptions to events and park use, demolition of the gazebo will take place after the new stage has been constructed and is operational.
Where we are now
Concept Design
Please note: the images provided are concept renderings only. The final structure may differ in appearance once detailed design and procurement are complete. Stage size will be determined as part of the 2026 budgeting process.
With council’s approval of the new stage design, the next step is preparing for construction. The existing gazebo will be removed in spring 2026, making way for the accessible performance space. This upgrade will preserve the character and green space of Victoria Park while creating a modern, functional venue for generations to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the gazebo being replaced?
The existing gazebo has reached the end of its useful life and is no longer able to meet the needs of community events and performances. Replacing it with a modern covered stage will provide a more functional space for programming while maintaining Victoria Park as a community gathering place.
What will the new stage be used for?
The new stage is being designed to support a variety of community activities, including concerts, ceremonies, festivals, cultural events, and other public gatherings. It will provide a dedicated performance space with improved functionality for event organizers and performers.
When will construction take place?
Construction of the new stage is scheduled to begin the week of September 14, 2026. The work is expected to take approximately three weeks, with project completion anticipated in October 2026. Timelines may change due to weather or other construction-related factors.
What is happening to the existing gazebo?
The gazebo will remain in place while the new stage is constructed. Once the new stage is operational, the gazebo will be demolished as part of the project.
Will there be impacts to Victoria Park during construction?
Some areas of Victoria Park will be temporarily restricted during construction to ensure public safety. The Municipality will work to minimize disruptions wherever possible and will provide updates on this page as work progresses.
Why is a tree being removed as part of the project?
One tree within the project area must be removed to accommodate the construction of the new stage and associated site improvements. The removal has been reviewed as part of the project planning process and is necessary to prepare the site for construction.
Contact the Project Team
Mike Di Giovanni
Manager, Parks and Facilities
Municipality of Kincardine
mdigiovanni@kincardine.ca
519-396-3491 x 7315
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