Part of the property of the former Harrow High School could soon become a residential development.
A report going to Essex Town Council Tuesday recommends councillors issue a request for proposal for plans for future high-density residential.
"Ideally, it would be multi-residential and a mixed us of housing. We've heard loud and clear from our community that they want more housing and this is a good area, close to downtown, close to recreational opportunities," said Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy.
The report recommends severing the property in two.
"We're looking at developing the footprint that the existing building is on," said Bondy. "It's really important that residents know that we want to keep the green space in tact."
Bondy originally hoped the high school could be renovated into a new community centre for the town, but a look at the costs determined that may not be the best route for the town.
"I always had the dream of having the high school as a community centre so it's my bubble that's really bursting. I've cried my tears over it but really when you look at the numbers and the amount of money it would take to fix the Harrow High School, there's really not a lot of options," said Bondy.
The report going to council recommends undertaking a master plan study for the area to determine the best way to create additional indoor recreational opportunities.
