The summer parking season in Port Stanley has officially come to an end. As of October 1, drivers no longer need to pay for spots in municipal lots, with free parking now in effect until next summer.
The change is part of a wave of seasonal updates announced by the Municipality of Central Elgin as the community shifts into fall and winter routines.
Alongside the parking update, visitors will notice changes to public washrooms and recreational facilities.
The Port Stanley Visitor Centre washrooms on Carlow Road will remain open all year, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily — a move made possible by funding in the 2025 municipal budget.
Washrooms in local parks will close after the Thanksgiving weekend, while facilities at Belmont and Port Stanley arenas will remain open throughout the season, from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
The Port Stanley Pier will close for the year on November 1, but parks and sports fields remain accessible year-round. Multi-court netting will be taken down at the end of October, weather permitting.
For those looking to stay active, public skating returns at both arenas. Belmont Arena will offer weekly Sunday skates, along with adult and all-ages options on Wednesdays. Port Stanley Arena will host skating on Sundays and Thursdays, with helmets required for anyone 17 and under.
Municipal officials say the seasonal updates are designed to keep facilities safe, accessible, and well-used as residents move from beach days to cold-weather activities.
Written by: Kennedy Freeman
