Collingwood Council heard a deputation from Richard Lex, representing the Collingwood Branch of Architectural Conservancy of Ontario, regarding the future of the former Tremont Hotel.

Mr. Lex is concerned that most of the former Tremont Hotel building could be demolished as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Town and Theatre Collingwood. While stating that the Collingwood Branch of Architectural Conservancy of Ontario has no problem with the town’s vision of constructing a new theatre at this location, Mr. Lex stated that maintaining only two walls of the historic structure will destroy the integrity of the building. “It is not a process in our view was in line with the process laid out for protecting the building under the Ontario Heritage Act” said Mr. Lex.

The Tremont Hotel was constructed in 1889. The proximity of the hotel to the Collingwood railway station made the hotel a popular destination for travelers. The Tremont was constructed during the active building period after the 1881 fire that destroyed a huge portion of Collingwood’s downtown district. The building was constructed at a time when many of the town’s wooden structures were being replaced by more solid, brick buildings.

"The building is rated ‘exceptional’ in the heritage district inventory, which is the highest rating in the district. It represents typical brick work from the late 1800’s with many interesting embellishments and is the last, essentially unaltered example of a classic, three story, stand-alone hotel in Collingwood” said Mr. Lex, adding that the Tremont is the last of 16 hotel buildings that once operated in Collingwood’s downtown.

The Collingwood Branch of Architectural Conservancy of Ontario feels that the former Tremont Hotel has the potential to be restored to a meaningful level of authenticity.

“In terms of cultural value to the town, the building represents an historical link to the booming railway and shipbuilding era” said Mr. Lex. He feels the Tremont’s location mid-way between the former train station and Hurontario Street is important in telling an important part of Collingwood’s history to future generations.

Mr. Lex quoted the an earlier Town of Collingwood consultant report, the Heritage Impact Assessment carried out in 2006 by Sue Murdoch, dealing with the Tremont building. “Overall the Tremont building retains its 19th century exterior and historic integrity. Given the large number of surviving original elements and available documentation, this building is a good candidate for revitalization” quoted Mr. Lex, adding that the building at that time was found to be structurally sound.

Mr. Lex says his group sees no need for the Tremont building to be demolished to make way for future planned development on this site. He reminded council that Collingwood will host the 2008 Heritage Conservation Conference with the theme of the conference being “landmarks not landfill Heritage Preservation and Environmental Sustainability.”

In pointing out that Collingwood has become a leader in sustainability in many areas including the buses, trails and proposed roundabouts. Keeping this in mind, Mr. Lex said that it would only consistent that an environmentally sustainable community could find an adaptive re-use for our historic buildings.

In closing, Mr. Lex asked Council to make sure that proper maintenance is carried out at the Tremont building while it sits empty awaiting a decision on its future. “We ask council to ensure that it does not become a victim of demolition by neglect.”

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