News Releases

Durham launches community engagement for temporary Ritson Road placemaking project

Whitby, Ontario – The Region of Durham is inviting residents to help reimagine an empty lot at 350 Ritson Road South, in Oshawa. The initiative, "Ritson and Olive Temporary Placemaking Project," is looking to transform the currently vacant property into a vibrant community space for the next four years, ahead of planned road improvements set to begin in 2029.

Visit durham.ca/art to complete a survey and share your opinion about how this space could be used. It could include public art, native...

Ritson School Project: A vision for a vibrant community

Whitby, Ontario – Exciting next steps are being considered for the Ritson School Project.

This phased redevelopment will create a vibrant community with a mix of affordable and market-rate housing. The proposed project includes 660 units, with at least 30 per cent being affordable. Approximately 500 units in four blocks will be released through Request for Proposals (RFP) under a long-term lease model.

The Region will also restore the historic Ritson School building into a community hub and create...

Health Department releases report on solar ultraviolet radiation in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – Climate change may lead to more harmful solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure among residents of Durham Region, and the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and other Indigenous Peoples with whom we share these lands. Continued exposure to harmful solar UVR can lead to the risk of sunburn, eye damage, skin cancers and suppression of the immune system.

To help learn, prepare for, and act against climate change, Durham Region Health Department has released the report,

Regional Chair and Mayors affirm support of local businesses in response to Canadian export tariffs

Whitby, Ontario – The following joint statement is being issued on behalf of the Durham Regional Chair and the Mayors from all eight local area municipalities of Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Clarington, Brock, Scugog and Uxbridge:

“On Saturday, February 1, the United States government announced it will impose a 25 per cent import tariff on most Canadian goods and a 10 per cent import tariff on energy beginning Tuesday, February 4. We are extremely disappointed with this decision. These...

Regional Chair statement honours Black History Month; Regional event to spotlight community leaders

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“Each February, we recognize Black History Month—a time to celebrate diversity, recognize the outstanding achievements of Black Canadians and honour the impact and presence of Black communities. It is also an opportunity to re-affirm our individual and collective responsibility to dismantle oppressive systemic barriers and address...