***FINAL UPDATE: In late November 2017 the developers announced that they would not need to raze the two buildings at 24 & 28 King Street East after all — and would instead preserve ALL of the facades of the four buildings. See "Two more facades to be preserved on historic Gore Park buildings: developer".
Kudos to the developers for the major course correction. And kudos to the Friends of the Gore for their passionate advocacy for the Gore Park structures, which was recognized with an Architectural Conservancy Ontario award in October.
The (wonderful) end of the story? Here's hoping!
**UPDATE 1: Hamilton Planning Committee met on January 17, 2017 and approved the two heritage permits needed for the redevelopment project to proceed: to retain the facade of 18-22 King Street East and to demolish the neighbouring buildings at 24 & 28. City council gave final approval on January 25.
The Friends of the Gore have launched a last-ditch campaign to petition the province to intervene to save this fine heritage row. You can can lend your support here:
