Council approves land swap for new Banting Memorial High School site

Banting Memorial High School in Alliston, Ont. (CTV News/Alessandra Carneiro)

Banting Memorial High School in Alliston is moving into a new home.

On Monday, the Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB) received approval from council to build a replacement school along the Banting Homestead property.

“The community has been promised a replacement for Banting High School for many years,” said Town of New Tecumseth Mayor Richard Norcross. “It is exciting that the town could reach an agreement that sees a new high school for the community in a location that respects and can enhance the important legacy of Sir Frederick Banting and his historic homestead.”

Council directed staff to proceed with negotiations for the transfer of roughly 25 acres of the Banting Homestead property, formerly known as 5116 Sir Frederick Banting Road, to the SCDSB at the Committee of the Whole Closed Session back in December.

In exchange, the town will take over the current site at 203 Victoria Street East and the G.A. Wright Athletic Field located at 251 Albert Street East.

SCDSB staff emphasizing that the replacement school is the right move for them due to the condition of the existing building and the continued growth within the municipality.

“The Board of Trustees is exceptionally pleased with the decision by Town Council to proceed with the land exchange,” said Dana Powell, chairperson of the SCDSB. “Building on the Banting Homestead and Heritage property presents unique opportunities to highlight the historical significance of the site and provide future generations of students with a modern learning environment where they can learn to innovate and pursue their goals.”

Banting Memorial High School will serve more than 1,200 students. It will include a child care centre and offer modern spaces, all while honouring the site’s history.

“Board staff completed intensified due diligence with respect to site selection, exploring all opportunities in Alliston and surrounding areas,” said Corry Van Nispen, superintendent of business and facility services at SCDSB.

Once the new site is empty, the existing school will be demolished to facilitate future redevelopment opportunities. The total funding approved for the replacement school sits at $41.4 million.

No specific timelines have been presented.

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