City of Pickering Statement on Frenchman’s Bay

Pickering, ON, October 16, 2026 – The City of Pickering has reached an important milestone in its long-standing efforts to bring Frenchman’s Bay into public ownership and secure its long-term protection.

Working alongside government and conservation partners, the City is pleased to confirm that the key parties are now in place to establish the framework for a funding agreement and management model. While important work remains, this represents significant progress toward the acquisition of Frenchman’s Bay.

“Frenchman’s Bay is the shimmering jewel of Pickering and an integral part of our identity. We are encouraged by the progress we have made and the shared commitment of everyone involved,” said Kevin Ashe, Mayor, City of Pickering. “There is still work ahead, including ongoing discussions with Indigenous community partners, but we have a strong path forward toward bringing the Bay into public ownership and ensuring it remains a treasured part of our community.”

This collaborative effort brings together the City of Pickering, the Government of Canada, including Environment, Climate Change and Nature and Parks Canada, the Nature Conservancy of Canada, and Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.

Together, these organizations are united in vision and purpose, with a shared goal of protecting Frenchman’s Bay, preserving its natural and recreational value, and ensuring it can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Discussions are continuing as the parties work through the final agreements and arrangements necessary to complete the acquisition of Frenchman’s Bay and establish its long-term management and protection. The City is grateful for the collective commitment that has brought this historic property transaction to its final stages and looks forward to sharing further details as the process advances.

Background:

Frenchman’s Bay, located in the City of Pickering, is one of the most significant coastal wetlands on the north shore of Lake Ontario. Unlike most water bodies, which are typically Crown-owned, large portions of the Bay have been privately owned by the Pickering Harbour Company (PHC) since 1853 under a pre-Confederation Charter granted by the Crown.  

Acquisition of the privately held portions of the Bay supports the City of Pickering efforts regarding the long-term protection, restoration, and enhancement of the Bay’s ecological functions in partnership and or consultation with municipal, provincial, and federal governments, Indigenous communities, stakeholders, and the public.

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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population 118,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. An award-winning municipality, and recognized by The Globe and Mail as one of the most liveable cities in Canada for two consecutive years, Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. Its dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, and continues to evolve as a preferred destination for creative learning, memorable events, and unique experiences at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.