NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF PENETANGUISHENE
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As members of the community are aware, the Town of Penetanguishene has completed the purchase of property located at 51 Dunlop Street – the site of the former Penetanguishene Secondary School.
Early in the purchasing process, council was made aware of the building condition and the extensive work that would be required over the next five to 10 years. It quickly became apparent that demolition of the 56-year old structure was inevitable, but a hard reality to face given the sentimental value of the building. After careful consideration, the town opted to purchase the property to support the Town’s existing plans for growth and development as outlined in our 2019-2023 Community Based Strategic Plan.
In mid-October 2021, Budget Demolition began working in the building doing general clean up and designated substance abatement to prepare for the larger demolition process.
Now that the preparations have been completed, Budget Demolition has been provided clearance to move into the demolition phase of the two-storey section of the school beginning Monday Jan. 31, 2022.
The north end one-story area of the school, referred to as the technology wing, will remain intact during the first phase of the demolition process while crews work to finish the abatement process on that area.
It is anticipated to take approximately one month to demolish the two-storey section of the building, with plans to complete the final one-story section in March 2022.
“Purchasing this property has provided our Staff and Council a number of options that suit our community needs and address the 2019-2023 Community Based Strategic Plan,” says Mayor Doug Leroux.
Earlier this week, staff released a memorial documentary showcasing the closing of Penetanguishene Secondary School, End of an Era. Embarking on the demolition of the school, the town recognized the community’s need for closure. This documentary, filmed by Quick Escape Productions was created to capture the memories of some of our community’s past teachers and students.
In the coming months, council will work with the community through public meetings when considering the town’s possible next steps for the use of the property. Details and updates on future consultation will be posted on the Town Public Notice Site, and through connectpenetanguishene.ca.
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