Fire damages Parks Canada building in Cape Breton

The RCMP is investigating after a fire caused severe damage to a Parks Canada building near the Fresh Water Lake Trail in Ingonish Beach.

The fire happened around 5 a.m. on Sunday in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

“The building itself was used as a washroom and change facility for our visitors,” said Maria O’Hearn, manager of external relations for Parks Canada Cape Breton.

“It’s always disappointing to lose an important piece of infrastructure,” she said. “We’ve made adjustments with the use of the Ingonish beach washroom and change area.”

Firefighters from the Ingonish Beach and North Ingonish Volunteer Fire Departments responded to the scene and were able to contain the fire without it spreading.

Parks Canada fire crews were also called to the scene for precautionary measures in case of a wildfire. The cause of the fire is unknown. Damage to the building is estimated at $60,000.

O’Hearn said because the fire happened in the early morning hours it didn’t affect those visiting the trail throughout the day on Sunday.

“We have had one minor adjustment to an evening guided walk, just not to use the area impacted by the fire,” she said.

O’Hearn said Parks Canada does plan to rebuild the facility, however there’s no timeline as to when it will be rebuilt.

The Fresh Water Lake Trail remains open to visitors.