Cambridge's chief building official calls for demolition of Preston Springs Hotel
Public can provide input for 30 days on possible demolition of ‘community landmark’
Cambridge's chief building officer has issued an order to demolish the Preston Springs Hotel, according to city officials.
The building is a public safety risk, and an "Order to Remedy an Unsafe Building" was issued on Wednesday, city officials said.
That order calls for the demolition of the vacant building.
City officials said that recent assessments of the building, done by two different engineering firms, determined the structure was in bad condition, which could lead to "structural failure."
The firms' reports say costly fixes to meet safety standards may not fix the issues in the building, which city officials say is now in an advanced state of deterioration and decay.
The owner has until Feb. 5 to apply for a permit for demolition, and city officials are encouraging the owner to salvage any historical value that may be left.
The building has been vacant for 25 years and suffered issues with vandalism, trespassing and a host of complaints.
Council will review a report on Tuesday, at which they will consider a recommendation from the Chief Building Officer that they remove the building's designation under the Ontario Heritage Act so demolition can take place.
That process allows for a 30-day public input process.