Four buildings to get preservation consideration

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This article was published 15/09/2019 (1929 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Four Winnipeg buildings are being considered for preservation this week, heading to the city’s historical buildings and resources committee Wednesday.

“I know the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Greek Orthodox Church is a pretty spectacular building, the Somerset building is a beautiful building as well. They all have incredible history, so I’m glad that they’re coming forward,” said committee chairman Coun. John Orlikow.

Also up for consideration are the Singer Sewing Machine building on Portage Avenue and the Johnstone Block on Pacific Avenue.

Historic status limits the type and extent of renovations property owners are permitted to complete, in order to keep the heritage resource intact. The limitations can make repairs more expensive or provide challenges with modern accessibility requirements.

Wednesday’s committee comprises largely architects and historians looking at the historic importance of buildings, but doesn’t make the final determination about enshrining historic status, Orlikow said. That’s ultimately up to the property committee and city council.

The owners of the Singer Sewing Machine, who operate Cristall Opticians from the 294 Portage Ave. location, may get a reprieve.

They wrote Aug. 27 to ask for an extension of time to address the proposed designation, given there’s been a death in the family.

“I can’t see the committee having too much trouble (providing that extension),” Orlikow said.

The committee will also consider issuing a $50,000 grant to restore the stone staircase at the front entrance to Laura Secord School at 960 Wolseley Ave.

tvanderhart@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @tessavanderhart