A building which was once a ships' store and a centre of commerce for the community will once again be a hub of business activity following a investment from the federal government.
South Shore St. Margaret’s MP Gerald Keddy came to Shelburne on Tuesday morning with a big present …almost $230,000 for the restoration of the iconic Cox Warehouse.
“The improvements to Cox Warehouse will allow this community-owned building to make a significant economic impact,” said MP Keddy. “This facility will become a new home of business on the Shelburne Waterfront.”
The investment will make the 110-year-old building suitable for leasing to private businesses for light industrial and retail use. The first tenant of the renovated facility will be the Dock Street Brewing Company, a microbrewery that will feature exotic brews with a local twist. Upgrades will include replacing the roof as well as water-damaged ceiling and walls, repairing and replacing windows, upgrading the heating system, re-shingling and structural repairs.
The Shelburne Historical Society is managing the restoration process and has invested $51,430 in the project, which is also being supported by the Town of Shelburne ($10,000) and the Municipality of the District of Shelburne ($6,000).
“This development is a huge opportunity for our community,” said Louise Lindsay, President of the Shelburne Historical Society. “The Society has spent more than 20 years trying to find a sustainable use for Cox Warehouse. This project allows us to retain and preserve a significant community landmark and is a chance for us to look to our past to define a new future and create economic activity for years to come.”
“Cox Warehouse played a chief role in our Municipality’s history as a driver of business activity and development,” said Roger Taylor, Warden for the Municipality of Shelburne. “We are excited to see this impressive structure begin to play this role again and add to the appeal of Shelburne’s historic downtown core.”
"There has been much interest in terms of the preservation of the Cox building," said Karen Mattatall, Mayor of the Town of Shelburne. "The rejuvenation of the Cox Warehouse should provide new economic opportunities in our area."
