Chatham-Kent council enthusiastically backed moving forward in a first step on a public-private partnership to develop the Downtown Chatham Centre mall into a municipal community hub and arena/entertainment complex.
Council unanimously voted to spend $50,000 to do their due diligence in moving the project forward, with a report coming back to council in August.
The revitalization plans are broad, including bringing various municipal services under one roof, an entertainment complex, shopping and even housing. If it comes to fruition it would easily be the biggest urban revitalization project in Chatham-Kent’s history.
The community hub would include Chatham-Kent’s museum, cultural centre, library and city hall.
Councillors praised the mall owners for their future plans and their track record for past developments.
“The experience that runs through this group should make everybody confident and give people comfort that this is going to happen,” said councillor Michael Bondy.
Local investors bought the mall last year and have been in touch with the municipality about plans about developing the property. At their own expense, the owners had preliminary plans made showing what the project looks like and what it would involve.
“The spin off (from the project) for all of Chatham-Kent will be amazing,” said councillor Carmen McGregor, noting she is impressed with the preliminary plans for the mall property.
The public will now have a chance to have their say about the proposal, through online consultation over the next few weeks. The results of the community consultation will come back to council in August.
