EOI issued for Belle Vue

By RTT Staff

The Town of Amherstburg is presenting what it calls “an exciting development opportunity” with the release of expressions of interest (EOI) for the development of the Belle Vue National Historic Site.

Situated on nine-acres of property, the town stated in a press release issued Monday “Belle Vue is primed and ready for a visionary developer to bring forth a transformative project that showcases creativity, innovation, and a deep respect for our community’s heritage.”

The town owns the building and believes “Belle Vue’s expansive grounds provide an exceptional canvas for development, offering endless possibilities for a lucrative venture that blends the preservation of history with contemporary design and functionality.”

“Belle Vue’s vast potential beckons those with the vision and expertise to embark on a truly remarkable project. We want to forge a partnership with a creative and seasoned developer who shares our commitment to preserving the historical significance of Belle Vue while delivering a development that will invigorate our community and attract visitors from near and far,” said Mayor Michael Prue.

Director of Development Services and Deputy CAO Melissa Osborne stated: “Amherstburg is eager to foster a partnership that aligns our town’s aspirations with the ambitions of a developer who can realize the true potential of Belle Vue. We invite forward-thinking individuals and organizations to join us on this exciting journey, creating a development that enhances its value as a destination for residents and tourists alike.”

Councillor Peter Courtney had a number of concerns but the biggest appeared to be choosing the Libro Centre over Centennial Park, citing the park issue from the previous term of council. He said he was “perplexed” by the debate over location of urban courts, stating the decision was made Aug. 15, 2022 when concepts were approved for that park and Jack Purdie Park.

“Why are we deliberating changing that?” he asked.

CAO Valerie Critchley said that was “a conceptual plan” and the current council is not bound by what the former council decided. Baillargeon added the park’s development is on hold until a final decision comes on how a track could be oriented on the site. Courtney questioned whether the public feedback and council decision “was all for naught” and believed a lot of time and money were wasted in the process.

“It’s absolutely asinine,” said Courtney. “This is absolutely crazy. I’m very disappointed tonight.”

McArthur made the motion to put the courts at the Libro Centre, stating it’s time to build it.

“Administration has been begging us for two years to make a decision,” said McArthur.

McArthur added the decision didn’t rule out a separate tennis facility at Centennial Park down the road but “you have to walk before you can run.”

Both McArthur and Councillor Linden Crain called the Libro Centre a “mecca” for sports activities.

“The thing that made it magic at Centennial Park back