FERGUS – The old Groves Memorial Community Hospital (GMCH) in Fergus will enter the final phase of demolition starting the week of May 13.
Last year, GMCH received approval from the Ontario Ministry of Health (MOH) to demolish the old hospital building at 235 Union Street in Fergus.
Over the past several months, decommissioning work has occurred, including abatement and removal of interior walls and electrical and mechanical elements.
“The final phase of the demolition work should take a couple of months,” stated GMCH senior project manager Joe Grasso in a May 6 press release.
“This will include dismantling both by hand and using mechanical excavators.”
Grasso said demolition will begin outside the building footprint and will work inward.
All efforts will be made to reduce the noise and dust and work will occur within the allowable time defined by the township’s bylaws.
Officials say signs and fencing will be displayed to make all pedestrians aware of the dangers.
“The demolition will not impact the trees located on the old property,” Grasso added.
Hospital president and CEO Angela Stanley said discussions about the future of the property are still in progress.
“At this stage, it is anticipated that the property will be sold once the former hospital building is removed,” she said.
The purchaser would then initiate the planning approval process.
“However, the decision on the property’s sale is still under discussion and is subject to the Ministry of Health’s approval,” said Stanley.
Commemorative activities will take place after the demolition to mark the building site, and information will be shared with the community as it becomes available.
