Plans can go ahead for the former Sicklesteel-Newkirk Inn to become part-residence at its new home on Talbot Trail.
This after Chatham-Kent Council approved the rezoning of 8800 Talbot Trail, to allow two single detached dwellings on the agricultural property. The property owner, Don Thompson, rescued the old inn by moving it from its original location on Longwoods Rd. back in November.
Staff warned council about "setting a precedent" with the move, with agricultural lands restricted from having more than one residential dwelling. But Thompson argues this is the best place to put it.
"It's the perfect spot to put a great house like that," Thompson told council. "It's on a historic route, Talbot Trail is one of the earliest highways in Chatham-Kent. To be honest I didn't think anyone would object to it."
Council also heard from a neighbour, who worries Thompsons' plans to turn the building into a kind of "museum" would create traffic and noise issues in the area. But Thompson confirms visits to the property would be by request only, and had no plans of setting the facility up as an actual business.
"It's not like I can farm that property, I'm not going to plant an orchard there. To me, if anything I could see this improving property value," says Thompson.
Thompson hopes to build a basement for when the structure gets put in the ground. He's looking to make that basement into a residence, and restore the main floor of the inn.
