The Township of Esquimalt began the process of demolishing a 70-year-old house at Saxe Point Park today to create more green space.
“The residential structure in Saxe Point Park is owned by the township and was previously rented to private citizens,” said Scott Hartmann, director of parks and recreation services.
“Failure of the property's septic field in 2011 resulted in the structure being closed and the utilities disconnected.”
The house contains asbestos and lead paint which will need to be removed before the house can be dismantled.
Mayor Barb Desjardins said community groups had come forward asking to take over the house for their own use.
“We looked at renovating the house, but the costs would be significant just to bring the house up to (the Building) Code,” said Desjardins.
Once the building is demolished, the township plans to use the existing space as additional green space and will consult with residents on the future use of the park. One proposal has the construction of a large pavillion to host weddings and community events.