Another key element in the redevelopment of Hamilton’s core is coming with the purchase of at least one more historic and long-vacant building near Gore Park.
The former home of Chester’s Beers of the World at 62 King St. East has been purchased by former industrialist Patrick Bermingham and he has an offer near closing on the building next door.
Both buildings are just down the block from the much debated Confederation-era Gore Park buildings that are now going through a redevelopment. Those buildings are at 18-24 King Street East and are owned by the Wilson-Blanchard Group.
After an agreement to keep the facades, that development is almost done with its re-engineering to add a floor to the top and is nearing the site-plan approval stage.
Area Councillor Jason Farr says all of this is anchored by the renewal of Gore Park.
“We’re seeing more development after the multi-million dollar restoration of the park,” Farr says. “It was a major and important step for council to make that investment. It’s almost done now, save and except for the smaller piece in front of the Connaught Hotel, and we’re waiting to partner with the Connaught on that piece.”
“There are obviously opportunities for savvy business people and investors alike to re-purpose buildings because they’re getting higher rents,” Farr adds.
Bermingham says he intends to keep the 19th century limestone facade and is likely to have a restaurant on the main floor with either apartments or a boutique hotel above.
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