The Port Perry Fairgrounds future remains undecided, Scugog Mayor Wilma Wotten confirmed, as the township continues a public consultation process on how the land should be used.
In a public update released by the Township of Scugog, Wotten said that no decision or formal plan has been made regarding the fairgrounds, which are owned by the municipality and have been leased to the Port Perry Agricultural Society since 1910.
The township launched a visioning process last fall after the agricultural society requested a lease renewal ahead of the current agreement’s June 2026 expiration. Instead of renewing immediately, the township chose to seek community input, gathering hundreds of comments and survey responses on the site’s future.
Concerns have been raised by residents and the agricultural society about the possibility of the fairgrounds being sold or redeveloped. Agricultural Society president Paul Puckrin said the fairgrounds are an essential part of Port Perry and should be protected and better supported through a new lease.
According to the township, public feedback to date reflects strong shared values around preserving the fairgrounds as public and community space, while opinions differ on how best to balance preservation, programming, and long-term sustainability.
Suggestions from residents include upgrades such as washrooms, seating, playground equipment, sports amenities, and improvements to support year-round community events. A smaller number of participants suggested more significant redevelopment concepts, including housing.
Scugog Township says it is committed to a transparent and fair consultation process, with all feedback being considered. An interim report outlining engagement results is expected to be presented to council in March, with a final report anticipated in June.
