Ontario will provide a $1.5-million grant for the north bank redevelopment of the Elora Mill.
The province is partnering with Pearle Hospitality to transform the Elora Mill into a year-round destination that officials say will create 110 new jobs in Wellington County’s tourism industry.
Pearle is contributing $13 million to the first phase of the project, which is expected to be completed by spring (the balance of the project is expected to be completed in four years).
With support from the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, Pearle will restore the north bank area of the Elora Mill and convert five historic buildings into a hotel and conference facility.
This will help the company expand its operations and create construction and hospitality jobs for the region.
The Elora Mill was built in 1833 and operated as a grist mill until 1974.
Prior to the Sept. 8 funding announcement, dignitaries were taken on a site tour to view work in progress.
“We are proud of our long history in the hospitality business in Ontario and excited to add to it with this exciting new development,” said Pearle Hospitality president Aaron Ciancone.
“We are committed to creating the best tourist destinations in the province and, at the same time, supporting the local community in Elora.”
He noted the day’s announcement was taking place in the Granery building which will be used to host conferences, meetings, weddings and events. Across the road are more hotel suites under construction.
“It all ties in nicely. We are using a lot of local stone so the stonework matches,” he said.
“I grew up with grist mills my entire life. I have love and respect for them.
“Since I was a young man, I’ve had an eye on this property. When it became available seven years ago there was no doubt in my mind that this gristmill would be my next big project.”
Ciancone explained the province’s financial support “has allowed us the opportunity to properly restore this heritage landmark.
“Over the decades, this heritage site has never had the privilege of having a proper restoration until now.”
He added, “We are all excited about building a world class tourist destination.”
Jeff Leal, Minister Responsible for Small Business, stated in a press release that the government’s partnership with Pearle Hospitality “is just one of the ways we’re supporting local economies through the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund…”
Representing Leal at the announcement, Guelph MPP Liz Sandals described the tour of work in progress as “fascinating.”
“People from this area will know the Ancaster Mill, the Cambridge Mill and the Whistlebear Golf Club as local Pearle projects,” she said.
“You’ve had a real success story as a family business and I congratulate you.”
She described the announcement as “terrific News” for the region and “a great example of what can be accomplished when industry and government work together.”
She added, “I know Pearle Hospitality has worked extremely hard to make this project happen. Your company is a very valued member of Ontario’s hospitality industry.”
Sandals stated, “We also know that tourism faces intense global competition … The answer in how to compete lies in more innovation by transforming locations and offering the very best in hospitality and by having the most skill and loyal employees one can find anywhere.
“I see all of those things happening here at Pearle Hospitality.”
Centre Wellington Mayor Kelly Linton noted “the stonework and exceptional attention to detail” included in the project will help “transform” downtown Elora.
“It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said.
He added the township is doing what it can to assist, from the rebuilding of the Victoria Street pedestrian bridge to the reconstruction of Mill Street West.
“It is going to be an amazing place for locals and visitors to Elora and is going to be a preferred tourism destination,” said Linton, who also recognized the province for its funding.
“I’m really looking forward to this opening up, and my wife can’t wait for the spa to open up … she’ll be on the list,” said Linton.
“The community is proud and overwhelmingly supportive of this project.”
Linton said he considers that a testament to Pearle and its work with Centre Wellington’s heritage committee and local residents and businesses.
Wellington-Halton MPP Ted Arnott said the “once-in-a-generation project will allow our community to take its rightful place as one of Canada’s finest hospitality destinations.”
He added he has worked for more than four years with successive township councils and staff “to help with the proposed renovation of this extraordinary and historic heritage property.”
He added “As I have said before, the scenic beauty of our province and the generous hospitality of our people give Ontario a significant competitive advantage in the world-wide tourism marketplace. And with this project in Elora, the world will come to us, and we will welcome our visitors with friendly warmth and kindness.”
Ciancone thanked the mayor for being a strong advocate of the revitalization of Elora’s downtown. He noted Elora is already a sought-after destination and with the reopening of the Elora Mill and concurrent township projects, it will become known by many more … as the place to visit.
