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Clock ticking on demolition of historic Fredericton building
Last Updated: Monday, November 5, 2007 | 12:34 PM AT
CBC News

The City of Fredericton is still trying to come to an agreement with the Brunswick Street Baptist Church to prevent the demolition of a 114-year-old building. But the church is saying that time is running out.

The historic York House is owned by the church, which announced in June that it would be tearing down the building to make space for new offices and classrooms.

"We do have to move forward," said church representative Paul Green. "The need is urgent for more space."

The church is already holding adult education classes in a funeral home across the street, Green said.

Church administrators told the city it would consider not tearing down the building if a replacement property for their developments could be found near the church.

Since the summer, the city staff has been working to acquire two or three properties that would accommodate the church's request.

But they've hit a stumbling block with a building owned by the Catholic Knights of Columbus, which is only willing to give up their nearby space if a land swap can be arranged.

"We think we're making some progress in acquiring that property," said Mayor Brad Woodside. "But the problem is we had to find another piece of property somewhere else that will suit their needs as well."

The deal is simply a matter of time, Woodside said.

Green said church has already waited longer than it expected.