Proposal to Change Land Use on Rothesay Avenue

A section of land on Rothesay Avenue, currently part of the Fernhill Cemetery property and designated as a natural area, is now being considered for commercial development. According to a public notice issued by the City of Saint John, Common Council will review a proposed amendment to the Municipal Development Plan for a portion of the property at 358 ½ Rothesay Avenue.

The proposal targets an 8,360 square meter parcel of land. If approved, the land’s designation would change from Park and Natural Area to Employment Area and Commercial Corridor. The city states the reason for the change is to subdivide this specific portion for future commercial use, while the rest of the site will remain as Fernhill Cemetery.

How You Can Get Involved

Saint John residents have an opportunity to learn more and voice their opinions on the proposed changes. A public presentation is scheduled to take place during a Common Council meeting at City Hall on Monday, December 15, 2025.

If you wish to formally object to the amendment, you must submit your written objections to the City Clerk by Wednesday, January 14, 2026. For any questions, you can contact the City Clerk’s office during regular business hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What land is being considered for rezoning?

An 8,360 square meter portion of the property at 358 ½ Rothesay Avenue, which is part of the larger Fernhill Cemetery site.

What is the current land designation?

The land is currently designated as a ‘Park and Natural Area’ under the Municipal Development Plan.

What is the proposed change?

The city proposes to redesignate the land as ‘Employment Area’ and ‘Commercial Corridor’ to allow for future commercial development.

Will this affect the entire Fernhill Cemetery?

No. The public notice specifies that the change only applies to a portion of the land along Rothesay Avenue. The remainder of the property will continue to operate as the Fernhill Cemetery.

How can I share my feedback on this proposal?

You can attend the public presentation at the Common Council meeting on December 15, 2025, or submit written objections to the City Clerk before the deadline of January 14, 2026.