Elora Mill reopening set for spring 2015

Things are moving along quickly with Landmark Development’s work on the Elora Mill project on both sides of the Grand River, according to Centre Wellington officials.

CAO Andy Goldie and director of planning and development Brett Salmon provided an update on the project during a town hall style meeting at the Fergus Grand Theatre on April 23.

“It’s an exciting project for our entire community,” Goldie said.

He added everyone seems to be looking forward to the redevelopment of the Little Folks property along the banks of the Grand River.

“(Landmark) is moving along really quickly with this development,” Goldie said.

He noted the developer is currently working on permits for renovations of the existing Elora Mill property on the north side and hopes to begin that work this spring. The plan is to open that part of the facility in spring 2015.

“We’re all excited about this and the Elora BIA is excited as well,” said Goldie.

He added the township is working to ensure the infrastructure projects tied into the Landmark project will be completed before the grand reopening of the Elora Mill.

He said the developer is also continuing work on the application to develop the south side of its property. Goldie noted senior staff are having monthly meetings with developer representatives to keep the project on track.

Much of the presentation last week included images provided by Landmark showing what the completed south side hotel and condo complex will look like.

That proposal includes condominium units, a hotel/conference/banquet/chapel facility, and commercial space, he said.

“We are working diligently with them to ensure there is parking – not only at their facility but in the downtown area as well,” said Goldie.

Landmark is looking to assist in the creation of two bridge structures.

The glass-enclosed walkway across the river is part of the hotel complex, but Goldie said the developer is ready to work with the township to ensure the development of the second pedestrian bridge, making use of the piers from the former Victoria Street bridge.

Goldie said the township has worked for two years with the developers, who are very keen on maintaining the heritage aspects of the existing Elora Mill while at the same time adding new amenities to the building.

Goldie said the township continues its work to ensure the public still has access to the north and south shore of the Grand River – to ensure the entire community can enjoy the entire development.

Objectives for 2014 include getting approvals for the site plan on the south side of the river and finalization of a cost sharing agreement for public realm improvements.

Construction of the hydro generation facility is slated to begin this year, with operations to begin in 2015.

Goldie said the township is excited with the overall project’s potential economic benefit to the community, which could be 250 new jobs and roughly $1.8 million in local development charges.

“We are very much looking forward to them breaking ground,” said Goldie.

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