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Mill project recognized for heritage significance

A pair of developers has been recognized by the City of Sault Ste. Marie for its preservation of heritage buildings in the redevelopment of the former St. Marys Paper mill.
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Sandstone buildings have been preserved as part of the St. Marys Paper site redevelopment.

A pair of developers has been recognized by the City of Sault Ste. Marie for its preservation of heritage buildings in the redevelopment of the former St. Marys Paper mill.

Blueforest Ventures and Riversedge Developments have received the 2013 Heritage Award bestowed by the city’s Municipal Heritage Committee.

In their plan for redevelopment, the two companies have preserved five of the historic sandstone buildings on the St. Marys Paper site, only one of which is actually protected from demolition under the Ontario Heritage Act. The buildings are part of the Clergue industrial empire that dates back to the early 19th century and are among the finest examples of the Richardson Romanesque style of architecture in the province.

All five buildings will be integrated into the site, now known as Mill Square, and will become functioning components of a mixed-use residential and institutional complex. In addition, the City of Sault Ste. Marie is in the process of developing a wider plan for the Canal District, an integrated urban revitalization plan that includes Mill Square and the historic Sault Ste. Marie Canal.

Blueforest Ventures and Riversedge Developments will receive their award at the Feb. 18 city council meeting.