Historic P.E.I. church set for demolition

The Holy Trinity Anglican Church, built in 1842 in Georgetown, P.E.I., will almost certainly be demolished next year.

With a mould-filled basement, a crumbling tower and its need for a new roof, the church is just too expensive to keep.

"It's a big part of our history, and we've exhausted every avenue I think to keep it here," Georgetown Mayor Lewis Lavandier told CBC News Friday.

It's been two years since a service was held in the church, and the Anglican diocese is not willing to pay the million-dollar renovation cost. The town considered buying it, but doesn't have the money for renovations either. Lavandier said council has other financial priorities.

In a last-ditch effort to save the church, Lavandier asked the province to turn it into a museum storage facility, but was turned down.

"The building is not suitable for that purpose," said Harry Holman, provincial director of culture and heritage.

"The province is not prepared to take the steps that the community has requested, because we believe there is a community responsibility,"

Rev. Peter Harris said the diocese has no plans to put the church on the market. Some furniture has already been removed in preparation for demolition, and the paperwork will soon by signed. Harris said it's the only option.

"Unless we had a miracle happen and a benefactor came along with a million dollars, but that's very unlikely," he said.

Levandier said that when the church comes down, which now seems inevitable, it will be a sad day for the town.