News Releases

Region of Durham celebrates Emancipation Day

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:

“On August 1, Durham Region will recognize Emancipation Day with an exciting community celebration at Esplanade Park in Pickering. This event is an opportunity to celebrate our region’s rich diversity, learn more about emancipation and recognize its legacy.

August 1 holds significance as the day slavery was abolished in Canada in...

Blue-green algae found in water samples tested from Lake Scugog

Whitby, Ontario - Durham Region Health Department has been advised by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks that a water sample collected on July 15 from Lake Scugog, near Platten Island, indicates the presence of blue-green algae in the area.

In the summer months, as weather conditions vary, there may be more occurrences of blue-green algae throughout Lake Scugog and other bodies of surface water in Durham Region. While there is currently no evidence of blue-green algae...

New Virtual Home Energy Assessment Tool launches in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – Today, the powerful new Virtual Home Energy Assessment Tool (vHEAT) is launching in Durham Region as part of the Durham Greener Homes Program. Using artificial intelligence (AI), vHEAT produces a digital energy score to help users understand how much energy their home consumes compared to homes of similar size, age, and type. The tool also provides each homeowner with a customized “retrofit road map” showing how they can reduce energy consumption, resulting in cost-savings.

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Region of Durham provides funding to non-profit organizations that prevent or reduce poverty

Whitby, Ontario – The Region of Durham is investing in non-profit organizations that help prevent and/or reduce poverty for Durham Region residents.

The almost $500,000 investment comes via the Thriving Communities Fund, which supports programs and services that address food security, mental health, and addictions; meet the needs of vulnerable populations, such as seniors and children; and improves local employment opportunities.

The Thriving Communities Fund also supports capacity building...

Ritson School Project continues to make progress

Whitby, Ontario – An update on the Ritson School Project was presented to Regional Council on June 26.

The update included a Community Needs Assessment, which was prepared by Smart Density and LURA Consulting. The assessment highlighted the following key considerations:

• New affordable and market housing, including one and two-bedroom units, as well as support programs.
• Child care, educational, training or recreational programs, as well as services for youth and sole-caregiver families.
• Opportunities...