Grey County Council has approved architectural services for the redevelopment of the EarlyON Centre in Hanover, moving the long-awaited project a step closer to construction.
At its August 14 meeting, council endorsed recommendations to award the contract to JPM Architecture Inc. of Goderich for $119,750, exclusive of HST. The cost will be covered through the county’s EarlyON reserve fund.
The decision follows council’s earlier approval to purchase land at 17th Street Crescent in Hanover, where a new EarlyON centre will be built to replace the aging facility at 515 9th Street. The current site, which saw nearly 4,700 combined visits from children and caregivers in 2024, is facing challenges with accessibility, limited parking, and outdated infrastructure.
JPM Architecture Inc., formerly Allan Avis Architects, has a strong track record of completing early learning and childcare projects across Grey, Bruce, and Huron counties. County staff noted the firm’s professionalism and experience in similar projects as key factors in the selection.
The project will move forward in five phases, beginning with schematic design and site plan approvals. Construction documents, tendering, and contract administration will follow, with an anticipated occupancy date by the end of 2026.
Council’s approval ensures the project can proceed under the county’s procedural bylaw, with the architectural services awarded in advance to keep the redevelopment on schedule.