By Gazette Staff
August 30th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The demolition of the block bound by James Street on the north, John Street on the east, Brant Street on the west and the parking lot on the south is in the process of being torn down. A 17 storey tower will be built, making it the second tower that will face City Hall.
Things are going to be dusty in the downtown core as the wooden buildings get pulled apart.
Fencing along the Brant street (west side) of the city block.
Northern boundary (James Street) of the city block.
John Street (east side) of the property
Kelly’s Bake Shop marks the southern boundary. They took part of the sign with them – expect to see it repurposed at their new location further north on Brant Street.
Back hoes will be tearing down all the buildings. Trucks will cart away cinder blocks, wood, piping – all the material that went into putting the buildings in place decades ago. The truck traffic will be on John Street and not Brant Street.
Demolition rubble will be trucked away during the next month. City Hall can be seen in the background.
The structure on the left used to be a jewellery shop.
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Burlington is at a crossroads. With each development proposal, we are faced with choices that will define not only our skyline, but the spirit of our city. The current plan to demolish this block of heritage buildings is particularly disheartening. These were historic sites worth saving and restoring—living reminders of our past that contribute to the charm and character that drew people to our downtown in the first place.
Instead, what we are promised is density: more high-rises, more people, and fewer parking spaces—just 0.6 per unit, according to the application. While the phrase “affordable housing” is often used, in practice it seems to mean that only a fraction—perhaps 25%—of units will be designated as such, and even then the term “affordable” remains ill-defined.
The consequences are not theoretical. For three years, we will face reduced lanes, limited parking, dust, noise, and disruption. In the long term, we risk creating a downtown that feels shadowed, wind-swept, and less inviting. Already, I hear from many who say Burlington is losing its enjoyment factor, and who are choosing to spend their time and money in other communities.
If we are not careful, this project may be the tipping point. Once the heritage and unique vibrancy of our downtown is gone, it cannot be brought back. Growth is important—but so is protecting the soul of our city.
#BURLDT