Restricted work authorized for Newmarket Clock Tower development buildings on Main Street

Town authorizes bracing work to preserve Main Street building following unauthorized demolition of adjacent building

Yorkregion.com
October 23, 2019
Teresa Latchford

Those who frequent Newmarket’s Main Street may notice work continuing on a building just south of the historic clock tower.

The Town of Newmarket continues its investigation into the unauthorized demolition of 184/186 Main St., part of the Main Street Clock Inc. development. The town previously issued stop work orders on the buildings related to the renovation project under three separate building permits when one of the buildings was demolished without a permit.

The stop work orders on the other two buildings remain as the town continues to investigate the incident.

However, according to a town advisory, to preserve the heritage aspects of the middle of what used to be three buildings and maintain safety, the town’s chief building official has given permission for the work crews to conduct bracing work, which could begin as early as today.

The town has stated it will be present while this work is being done.

“The remaining building, 194 Main St., was previously issued an Order to Comply under the Ontario Building Code. The requirements have now been met and the town does not have any legal grounds to stop work at this address,” the advisory continued. “Construction on this building is nearing completion and it is in the best interest of the Town and Main Street for it to proceed.”

The town has committed to providing more information once the investigation is complete