Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Why can’t the former hospital be saved from demolition?

Infrastructure Ontario (IO) has stated that the buildings are beyond their useful life and pose a health and safety risk in their current state. The costs would also be significant to adaptively reuse the buildings.

The demolition of the buildings will enable Central Elgin’s plan for redevelopment, including housing and community uses.

Q. Can the heritage elements of the former hospital be preserved?

Infrastructure Ontario’s (IO) contractor will salvage selected stone carvings and stone elements from the existing buildings.

IO also completed a LiDAR survey (internal and external scan) of the former hospital buildings to produce an accurate 3-D model of the buildings.

As a requirement of the Request for Proposals, Central Elgin’s Development Partner will work to ensure that the stone carvings and survey form part of the commemoration strategy in the development of the property.

Q. Can I go onsite for a tour of the site?

Please note that members of the public are not permitted to enter an active demolition site due to health and safety concerns. The contractor and Infrastructure Ontario (who is managing their contract) cannot accommodate requests of this nature. We appreciate your understanding on this matter.