It’s another step ahead for the Elora Mill development by Pearle Hospitality.
On Oct. 31, Centre Wellington councillors approved the balance of the heritage permit application for the development proposal on the north side of the Grand River, which includes the existing Elora Mill building, mill stable and additional buildings.
At a special meeting on Oct. 24, Heritage Centre Wellington recommended council approve of the balance of the heritage permit application, specifically regarding the addition of chimneys (as noted on plans by Hicks Design Studio):
– five on the roof of the main five-storey mill building;
– two on the terrace roof atop the proposed new west atrium addition to the mill building;
– three on the roof of the original two-storey addition to the mill building; and
– one on the proposed new east two-storey addition to the mill building.
In addition, the committee recommended approval of an industrial-style metal railing.
Any new material proposed for the cladding of the exterior of any buildings/structures, including the proposed chimneys, as outlined in the heritage permit application and approved plans, would still require municipal heritage committee review and approval prior to issuance of a building permit.
The property at 77 West Mill Street in Elora is designated under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act as a property of cultural heritage value and/or interest.
The township received a heritage permit application for alterations to the Mill development which specifically includes:
– the addition of a pool and hot tub structure on the east façade of the Elora Mill Stable Spa building,
– the addition of an enclosed glass pedestrian bridge structure that spans the Grand River and connects the north and south sides of the Pearle Hospitality development lands (which enters the south side of the property between the main mill building and the mill house and joins to the mill building on the 2nd floor of the east façade of the proposed new two-storey mill addition with associated support piers on the mill property);
– the addition of a balcony and associated railing on the south façade of the new east addition to the mill building; and
– the addition of the chimneys to allow venting of proposed kitchen equipment and proposed wood burning fireplaces.
The redevelopment of the Elora Mill property includes a hotel with associated banquet and spa facilities, as well as ancillary administrative uses.
The official plan and zoning bylaw permit the proposed uses. Site plan approval was granted on Aug. 8 and a revised site plan reflects the proposed changes. Approval will be required for the revised site plan.
Though Heritage Centre Wellington first met to review the revisions on Oct. 18, concerns were raised regarding the new chimneys.
Since then revisions were made and the committee endorsed the modifications at its Oct. 24 meeting.
Prior to discussion, councillor Don Fisher declared a conflict of interest as he owns property adjacent to the proposed development. As such, he abstained from discussions.
Centre Wellington planner Mariana Iglesias explained the permit includes the additional chimneys and design elements.
Mayor Kelly Linton offered “a bit shout out to Heritage Centre Wellington for its work with Pearle Hospitality.” He said these volunteers have worked very hard to ensure the development will protect the community heritage as much as it can.
Council subsequently approved the balance of the heritage permit.
