FERGUS/BELWOOD – The Township of Centre Wellington has acquired two properties in Fergus and Belwood, giving the municipality greater flexibility to plan for future community needs.
In Fergus, the Township has acquired 140 St. Patrick Street West, a 0.24-acre property located beside the Provost Lane and St. Patrick Street parking lot.
The property includes an existing structure and is currently zoned C1. The total value of the transaction is $1,407,515, with the Township contributing $667,515 and the remaining $740,000 provided as a donation by the McCabe family.
In recognition of the contribution, the Township says it will provide naming rights in the name of the McCabe family.
“This is an important investment in the future of downtown Fergus. We are very grateful to the McCabe family for their meaningful generosity and their commitment to this community,” said Dan Wilson, Chief Administrative Officer.
“Acquiring this property gives the Township a rare opportunity to thoughtfully plan for future needs in a highly visible downtown location, while respecting the existing tenants and considering the best long-term use for the site,” Wilson said.
The McCabe family says Fergus has been an important part of their family’s story.
“Fergus has been an important part of our family’s story, and we are pleased to support an opportunity that we believe will create a vibrant and welcoming downtown Fergus for generations to come,” stated the McCabe Family. “This property has an important location within the downtown, and we are proud to work with the Township to help ensure it can continue to serve the community’s future needs.”
The Township says it will continue discussions with the existing tenants about potential lease extensions. Any longer-term plans for the Fergus property will be considered through future budget processes and in consultation with Council.
Meanwhile, in Belwood, the Township has acquired land surrounding the ball diamond at 509 Fifth Street South from the Grand River Conservation Authority.
The Township says the acquisition establishes clear property boundaries around the ball diamond and gives the Township flexibility to consider potential future trail connections in the area.
The land was acquired in its current condition for a nominal purchase price of $2.
The Township says there is no decision at this time regarding the future use of the Belwood property. Any plans will be considered through future budget processes and Council-approved plans, including the Active Transportation and Mobility Plan and the Parks and Recreation Plan.
The Township says it will provide further information to the community if future plans for either property are considered.
