In a mood of progressive partnership Cranbrook City Council July 14 voted to remove all the barriers to development for the old Water/Electrical Building behind City Hall.

After meetings with city staff and council the Cranbrook Heritage Association (CHA) was elated to see the demolition orders on the building removed.

Karen Crawford, president of the Cranbrook Heritage Association, was pleased to hear that staff and council accepted the proposed $40,000 restoration budget and the association’s ‘Statement of Intent.’

“Council has also approved the issuance of a Heritage Alteration Permit, at no cost to the association. This will allow us to apply for a Building Permit and get to work on the building. This is a win-win,” Crawford said.

The CHA currently has almost $14,000 raised directly for building restoration. The intent is to begin restoration in stages starting with the interior framing and roof.

Ken Haberman, also of the CHA said, “We will apply for a Building Permit and as soon as that and the Heritage Alteration Permit are in place we intend to start the interior framing. It feels good to know that we can begin the actual work.”

The Cranbrook Heritage Association also presented council with a set of construction engineering drawings for the Brick Building, designed by Nelson Engineering of Cranbrook. These detail the work to be done, with interior framing supporting the new roof. The restored structure will eventually be suitable for almost any use, including office or retail.

Crawford was relieved to note, “working with city staff and council we have reached agreement to move forward with restoration. At this point we are committed to restoring the building exterior to stable condition, with everything in place to finish the interior. With the support of Cranbrook residents and businesses we intend to provide a heritage space that can be the key to making that whole portion of downtown more appealing and people-friendly.”

She added that people could donate to the cause at Lotus Books, Kathy’s Kitchen, Hot Shots Café or Cloverdale Paints, or by contacting the Cranbrook Heritage Association. For those larger donors requiring tax deduction status, donations can be made at City Hall and that money will be made available to the CHA for building restoration purposes.

Lead image: An elevation view of the building showing interior wall construction that will support the new roof structure. This was also executed by Nelson Engineering. Volunteer labour will be sought to work on framing the interior walls.

Submitted

Article Share