If you live in Saint John, you know the giant white box sitting on the west side. The Carleton Martello Tower has been hidden from public view for a decade. Built to defend the city during the War of 1812, the historic site closed in 2016 for major repairs. Now, residents are losing patience as the project stretches six years past its original deadline. According to a recent report from CBC News, the site will not fully reopen until 2027.

Neighbours Miss Their Local Landmark

Lifelong west side resident Katie Oram misses the days when the tower was a gathering place. “It kind of breaks my heart,” Oram told CBC. “I really enjoyed going and visiting Martello Tower.”

She used to take her children to events at the site and notes its value as a unique piece of history outside the uptown core. Oram expressed frustration over the ongoing delays impacting local tourism. “They want to see that history, and they are seeing that big white marshmallow,” she said.

For newer residents, the tower is a mystery. David Valdez moved to the neighbourhood over two years ago and has never seen the actual stone structure. “That is all I have ever known is that big white box,” Valdez said. “I understand it is a unique project, but I am still curious to see what they are doing, how they do it.”

Rising Costs and Project Delays

The federal government initially committed 13 million dollars to the project in 2018. Officials expected the site to reopen by the end of 2020. Today, Parks Canada reports the preservation and restoration costs have ballooned to 27.5 million dollars.

The pandemic and global supply chain issues caused significant setbacks. The restoration work itself is also complex. Crews must repair centuries old stones and joints that have weathered harsh Atlantic storms. They are also replacing a concrete fire command post added to the roof in the 1900s. Parks Canada released a statement saying the restoration work is progressing well.

When Can You Visit Again?

You will see some progress this summer. Parks Canada plans to remove the upper scaffolding soon. This will give you a partial view of the restored upper tower. However, you cannot walk the grounds just yet. The visitor centre, exhibit galleries, and surrounding grounds will open for the 2026 tourism season. You will have to wait until 2027 to step foot inside the fully accessible historic structure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the Carleton Martello Tower closed?

Parks Canada closed the tower in 2016 to perform extensive structural repairs on the historic stonework and replace the concrete fire command post.

When will the Martello Tower reopen?

The grounds and visitor centre will open in 2026. The tower itself will become fully accessible to the public in 2027.

How much is the restoration costing?

The federal government has spent 27.5 million dollars on the project to date.