Ontario government proposes phased demolition of Huronia Regional Centre building

The Huronia Regional Center established in 1876, stands at 700 Memorial Ave, in Orillia, Ont. (CTV NEWS)

A controversial building dating back to 1876 situated on acres of government‐owned and managed land at the north of Lake Simcoe may no longer be.

Back in 2013, a $35 million lawsuit was filed by former residents of the Huronia Regional Centre against the province on allegations of mistreatment. The lawsuit claimed residents suffered abuse at the hands of their caregivers, which was home to people with developmental disabilities.

The Ontario government paid millions to former residents and made an official apology.

Since its closure in 2009, the property has been used for government services and initiatives, including a courtroom, a public health lab, and trainee homes and facilities for the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).

While the province says these programs and services will continue, a portion of the Orillia campus is no longer needed. The Ministry of Infrastructure (MOI) is proposing the phased demolition of up to 49 buildings and 11 tunnels on the Huronia Regional Centre site.

The ministry told CTV News on Monday that the assets and buildings have deteriorated and are no longer viable for long-term use.

Orillia Mayor Don McIsaac saying, “Well this a dark area and I think we just need to move forward, you know, taking the buildings down I think will help. I know the former residents are excited about seeing the building come down. So, that’s a good step.”

“Infrastructure Ontario (IO), on behalf of MOI, will lead planning for the demolition of buildings and site rehabilitation to ensure the site is ready for future use and redevelopment,” said the Ministry of Infrastructure to CTV News.

IO is now actively pursuing a contract to carry out the planned demolition. Further decisions on site use will be made by the OPP in consultation with the Solicitor General’s office and Infrastructure Ontario.

The OPP is in the preliminary planning stage of the new academy, including a comprehensive needs assessment. “The former HRC site offers important proximity to OPP General Headquarters, and based on its current use is considered a desirable site,” said Gosia Puzio, Corporate Communications Bureau, Ontario Provincial Police.

“Those buildings coming down mean a couple of things, we’re obviously cleaning up the sight but we’re excited for the OPP. They are going to build an academy there which is going to be great for Orillia and we’re looking forward to seeing that too,” McIsaac continued.

Officials say the timing of everything will be determined through the awarded contract.

“It frees up the other land around it and Orillia has had a long standing interest in the land along the lakefront,” McIsaac said.

This demolition is part of province’s plan to continue to generate revenues and reduce liability costs in Ontario.

Related Stories

• $35M settlement in class-action suit against Ontario government
• Former residents of the Huronia Regional Centre return to the facility
• Emotional day at Queens Park as premier apologises to HRC survivors