Brockton has an initial plan in place for a new residential development at the site of the former Bogdon and Gross furniture factory.
That's located at 75 Ridout Street in Walkerton.
The site has been purchased by LHMD Inc. and the developer intends to build a mix of housing types which includes single residential to multi-family, with a total of 215 to 250 units. LHMD Inc. has other investments in Bruce County including a housing development Kincardine.
"We are excited to continue to invest in Bruce County. As stakeholders within the community we believe in healthy communities that have diversity in housing options, which allows for the long-term sustainability and growth of these communities," said Arif Ismail, President of Legacy Hospitality Management & Development Inc.
"With our previous developments in Kincardine and this new residential development in the early planning stages, our hope is to bring a successful development to this site, creating a lasting project that everyone can be proud of."
The company is working with GSP Group Inc. on the planning applications for the proposed development.
"An exciting new residential neighbourhood is proposed, to be integrated into the existing community on the site of the former furniture factory,? said Hugh Handy, a Senior Associate with GSP Group. "Future planning applications will be forthcoming with an opportunity for public participation."
The former furniture factory at 75 Ridout Street, built in the late 1890s by the Knechtel Furniture Company, will be demolished, as the building does not lend itself to residential development and is in very poor condition. Bogdon and Gross purchased the factory in 1938, after it had closed in 1934 during the Great Depression.
The structure has sat empty since 2017, and a fire in 2020 caused damage to the third floor. A demolition permit has been issued.
"Staff are working with Mr. Ismail on this new residential project in Brockton to ensure the development proceeds in a responsible manner and we are thrilled that it will help serve the growing need for a variety of residential types that will appeal to those looking to move to the community or relocate within the community," said Chief Administrative Officer, Sonya Watson.
In accordance with the Planning Act, residents within the vicinity 75 Ridout Street will be notified of the development plans as they proceed, and notice of the planning application will be posted at the site. Residents will have an opportunity to comment on the proposal through the local planning approvals process.
