Construction is set to start on Ladysmith’s historic Island Hotel on First Ave. The building will be torn down and replaced with a new five-storey structure housing 22 residential units, ground floor commercial space and a rooftop patio.
The original facade of the three-storey historic building will be preserved and incorporated into the new structure, according to a news release from the Town of Ladysmith.
Start of construction on June 16 will bring changes to parking in downtown Ladysmith.
The town-owned parking lot at 117 Gatacre Street will be closed for up to 24 months as it will be leased to the developer to be used for offices, parking and facilities for the site.
The town says 28 parking stalls will be lost between the lot and neighbouring streets and adds no accessible parking stalls will be lost.
“We fully appreciate that the closure of the 117 Gatacre parking lot may be frustrating for some residents,” says Nicholas Pescod, the town’s communications and engagement specialist. “However, the alternative options would have caused considerable congestion and parking difficulties on 1st Avenue, resulting in unnecessary hardship for residents, visitors, and businesses alike.”
A tower crane will be installed withing the building elevator shaft and shoring will cause a temporary reduction in the public walkway in front of the building. The town says sufficient pedestrian space will be maintained throughout, and the partial closure will be lifted once the facade is supported by the new building.
