Hamilton City Manager Marnie Cluckie is now directly addressing long standing concerns regarding people using the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Canada war memorial pavilion located in Bayfront Park.

Since the pavilion’s installation in 2002, there have been challenges with people using the war memorial for picnicking and other recreational activities.

The structure’s design makes it unclear to visitors that it serves as a war memorial rather than a traditional park pavilion.

Hamilton’s the Veterans Committee has expressed concerns regarding unintended uses, concerns that have increased in recent years.

In 2023, the City of Hamilton inadvertently permitted the pavilion to be used as part of a music concert staging area.

Following this, the City added clear language to event contracts stating the pavilion’s purpose and that it is not to be used.

During 2023-24, the City of Hamilton permitted encampments in Bayfront Park. During this time period, people were seen using illegal drugs on picnic tables they had moved into the structure.

Issues regarding the pavilion have been a routine discussion at the Veterans Committee meetings.

Last week, on June 24, the Veterans Committee were told that Cluckie has “put into motion some activity towards creating a structure at the pavilion which will discourage the introduction of park furniture into the pavilion.”

City culture department staff member Christopher Redford told the committee a sign will be installed “reminding the public that they may use it but may use it with respect.”

The Argyll Memorial Pavilion at Hamilton’s Bayfront Park. Hamilton’s Veterans Committee wants the City to do something about people moving picnic tables into the pavilion. Credit: Joey Coleman
Production Details
v. 1.0.0
Published: July 1, 2025
Last updated: July 1, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman

Update Record
v. 1.0.0 original version

Join the Conversation

2 Comments

TPR welcomes constructive and civil discussion. Comments are moderated.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. I think this speaks to the fact that there’s demand there for actual covered structures in the park. Maybe providing alternatives is a better solution.

    Reply

  2. It is a war memorial to past serving members of the Argylls. Do we allow people to use the cenotaph at Gore Park for picnics. There should be zero use of the pavilion unless it concerns remembrance and respect for veterans.

    Reply