A house in New Westminster that was severely damaged by fire earlier this year is set to be demolished following a city order. If the property owner does not take action, the city will step in to handle the demolition and cleanup at the owner’s expense.

According to a staff report presented to city council on March 10, the house at 707 Queens Avenue was extensively damaged in a January 2025 fire, with the garage completely destroyed. The report cited multiple concerns, including unauthorized entry attempts, large amounts of combustible waste, structural instability, and exposure to the elements.

The city has determined that the property is unsafe and a public nuisance under the Community Charter. As a result, the owner has been given 31 days to apply for a demolition permit and must complete the demolition and cleanup within 120 days. If the owner fails to comply, the city will proceed with demolition and charge the costs—estimated at $15,000—to the owner, potentially adding the amount to the property taxes if unpaid.

This property has a history of maintenance issues and has required an unusual number of police and emergency service responses. The January fire was the second in less than a year, following a garage fire in March 2024. Since the fire, authorities have noted repeated trespassing incidents at the site.

The council unanimously approved the demolition order, emphasizing the need to address safety risks and prevent further hazards in the community.

Read the full story here.

⚡ Last Chance! NWMSA Fastpitch Registration Closing Soon! ⚡

📍 New Westminster, BC – Time is running out to secure your spot for the New Westminster Minor Softball Association’s (NWMSA) 2025 fastpitch season! The April 30 registration deadline is fast approaching—don't miss your chance to hit the field!

🥎 Key Registration Details:

✅ Learn to Play (LTP) & Divisional Teams: Sign up by April 30, 2025
✅ Divisional Team Assignments: Finalized by March 15—regular season runs April–June
✅ Limited Spots! Some divisions are already filling up fast, with waitlists for U15C Pee Wee & U20C Royals

Divisions & Fees:

Learn to Play (2018-2020): $100
U09C Mini-Mite (2016-2017): $115
U11C Mite (2014-2015): $195
U13C Squirt (2012-2013): $235
U15C Pee Wee (2010-2011): $290 (Waitlist)
U17C Bantam (2008-2009): $290
U20C Royals (2005-2007): $290 (Waitlist)

All fees are in Canadian dollars.

Returning players should use their existing accounts to register. For login help, contact [email protected].

Don’t miss out—register today at the NWMSA website before it’s too late!

⛈️ Rain Joke of the Day 🌧️

🌧️ Why do clouds always get invited to parties? 🎈🎊

🎆 Because they bring the rain! 🌧️

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Fire Ravaged House Coming Down+ Fastpitch Registration Closes

Issue #168

Inside the New West Spotlight

Read New West Spotlight Online

March 12, 2025

March 13, 2025

March 14, 2025

🧑‍🚒 Fire-Ravaged Home to Be Torn Down After Safety Concerns