Tuesday, June 24, 2014 – The Heritage Permit Review Sub-Committee said no to the Hamilton Conservation Authority’s proposal to demolish the majority of the Hermitage Ruins that is located in Ancaster, Ontario.
The Hamilton Conservation Authority wanted to reduce the surviving walls of the 1855 Mansion to a height of 3 feet. The HCA expressed concerns over public safety; from falling stones to people climbing the walls and then falling.
The Authority was also concerned about the cost of restoring the structure. They were unwilling to invest more money in the designated heritage structure than the current proposal of $150,000 to $200,000. The same amount that it would cost to completely demolish the mansion.
At the meeting, it was also revealed that the HCA would also refuse greater restoration efforts even if private money available.
The members of the Permits Committee have struggled with the fate of the Hermitage Ruins over three meetings. The committee seemed to be exhausted over the unwillingness of the HCA to do more in saving the designated building and finally voted 4-0 to reject the HCA proposal.
The issue now moves to the Heritage Committee, assuming the HCA still wishes to partial demolish the mansion.
Chris Erskine
chriserskineartist@gmail.com
@erskinec
FCSD Studio 