• The Town has notified the public of a two-week demolition project to remove the building at 6343 Main Street.
  • Work begins on October 7, and residents are advised to expect increased noise and dust during the project.
  • No significant traffic disruptions are expected, though construction vehicles will be accessing and exiting the site.
  • Sidewalk access will remain open, although alternate walkways may be implemented if needed.
  • The demolition concludes multi-year deliberations over the property’s fate and will add 400 square meters to Stouffville’s Civic Square.

 

Stouffville purchased 6343 Main Street in February 2022 with the intent to demolish the building and expand Civic Square. The $1.089 million purchase was funded through the Town’s Parkland Trust, which is supported by parkland dedication fees developers can pay instead of building public parks within their developments.

In March 2023, Council explored leasing options for the building after receiving informal interest from two members of the public. While this approach would have preserved the heritage structure and potentially generated revenue, high renovation costs—estimated by Staff to be as much as $2.5 million—appeared to deter prospective tenants.

In June 2023, Staff renewed demolition recommendations. While some Council Members expressed disappointment about the loss of the building’s heritage value and the inability to secure tenants, Council approved the building’s demolition.

In February 2024, Staff recommended formally removing the property from the Town’s Built Heritage Inventory. Although the Heritage Advisory Committee opposed the move, Council reaffirmed its commitment to new Civic Square plans and supported the recommendation.

Stouffville held a Public Workshop in April to gather community input on the future of the expanded Civic Square. Discussion focused on creating a welcoming environment, fostering community identity, celebrating local heritage, and improving connectivity.

“We are dedicated to transforming Civic Square into a dynamic, engaging, and accessible hub for our community in the downtown district,” the Town’s project consultation website explains. “Expanding our urban parkland is a pivotal development as Stouffville continues to grow amidst increasing urban activity.”

Demolition is set to begin Monday, October 7, and is expected to be completed by October 28.