Cambridge city council has approved a development project at an historic site at 211-215 Queen St. W. in Hespeler.
The Blacks Point Development project will begin construction in two phases while preserving the historic Dominion Woollens/Silknit /Forbes textile building, a designated heritage property that fronts the Speed River.
Built in 1863, it is the last of Hespeler’s textile buildings.
“It was used by those fighting in the war. I think it’s an important part of Hespeler history and culture and it’s something that we need to make sure that we don’t lose in the redevelopment on this site,” said Coun. Mike Mann at a special council meeting Tuesday.
“I think redevelopment is essential, but I think it is just as essential to retain the history and culture of that site.”
Councillor Mike Devine said longtime Cambridge resident and local cultural heritage conservationist Lawrence Turner has done a lot of work on this site and is currently compiling a local history.
The first phase of the building project includes retention and redevelopment of the former three-storey textile factory that will be converted into 114 condominium units with commercial space on the ground floor.
Three existing one-storey buildings will also be used for commercial purposes.
The second phase includes construction of a 10-storey residential building with 115 units. The first two floors will be used for parking and in total, there will be 279 commercial and residential parking spaces.
“This is a development that I am very much in favour of. I think it is a great development and I am so pleased to see it happening in Hespeler,” said councillor Donna Reid.
“I think it will add greatly to Hespeler and will help the village by having more people come and shop and take part in all of the activities that we offer.”
