The company that bought the former St. Agnes Catholic School said it has big plans for the surplus property but it still has to tie up some loose ends.
Director of Projects and Development Graham Cubitt said Indwell plans to convert the school into 30-35 apartments and expects the deal to close in about two months once all the due diligence has been completed.
"Indwell is happy our offer for the former St. Agnes School was selected by the St. Clair Catholic School Board. We are now going to undertake the environmental due diligence as outlined in the RFO process, with 45 days to confirm our assumptions and waive conditions on our offer," said Cubitt. "If everything works out, and we expect it should, we’d look to close by the middle of August."
Cubitt said Indwell is looking to contribute long-term solutions to help the community rebound and overcome the housing crisis that "has emerged so quickly."
"We know there’s a huge need for affordable apartments in the community, particularly homes that are accessible with on-site supports. We’re working closely with local agencies, churches, NeighbourLink, and City Hall, and look forward to broader input from the neighbourhood on how to give the St. Agnes’ site new life," Cubitt added.
The St. Clair Catholic District School Board approved the $635,000 sale on Monday night.
Mayor Darrin Canniff said homelessness is one of biggest challenges Chatham-Kent faces.