Despite COVID, redevelopment of the former Sarnia General Hospital site is progressing well, with the sale of residential lots and renovation of the former health unit building.
GFive Inc., a group of local businessmen, has sold 11 serviced lots along the south side of Essex Street and three on the north side of Bright Street.
GFive Partner Kenn Poore also said Maaten Construction is creating new medical suites at the former health unit building on George Street at a cost of around $1.2 million.
Work includes a new parking lot, landscaping, new windows, fencing, painting and HVAC system.
"We've signed our first doctor, and we've got space for about four more doctors," said Poore. "It's going to be a fabulous building. We've got about 8,000 square feet, it's handicap accessible with 60 car parking, and a great location close to the hospital. We're excited about that."
Poore said a new doctor is already slated to move into the building on December 1, and he expects construction of the new homes to get underway in early 2021.
Site where former SGH stood Oct. 2020 (BlackburnNews.com photo)
He said a few out-of-town companies have expressed interest in developing the remaining land.
"We've had some interest in the 3.5 acres remaining under the old hospital from a couple of Toronto-area developers," he said. "We're working closely with them. The most interest we've had is lifestyle living for seniors or even rest home or nursing home applications."
Poore said the project was delayed somewhat due to the pandemic and complications getting construction supplies because a lot of plants were closed.
