A barn on a heritage-listed property in Courtice was destroyed by fire earlier this month, Clarington officials confirm.
Clarington Emergency and Fire Services responded to a call at 1440 Gord Vinson Ave. near Bloor Street East and Townline Road South around 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 8. The barn was deemed a total loss, but the historic farmhouse on the property was not damaged and no injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire remains unknown. Any investigation will be handled through the property owner’s insurance, though anyone with information is asked to contact Durham Regional Police.
The nearly six-acre property is listed on Clarington’s heritage register but is not designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, meaning replacement of the barn is not required. The site is proposed for a 59-unit housing development, which includes preserving the farmhouse while removing existing barns.
Holland Homes, the developer behind the proposal, did not respond to requests for comment before publication.
