By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The historic residence at 190 Main Street in North Hatley is set to be demolished despite widespread opposition from local citizens and heritage organizations, including Action Patrimoine. The MRC of Memphremagog confirmed it would not intervene to block the demolition after reviewing the municipality’s decision, opting not to exercise its authority under provincial land use legislation, as detailed in documents obtained from the MRC Aug. 26.

The building, which is located within a designated heritage site, has been the subject of controversy since the demolition request was submitted to the municipality in 2023. Although the request was initially denied, it was later approved by North Hatley’s municipal council after an in-depth review by the local demolition committee. The decision, which included specific conditions, was forwarded to the MRC, who, after evaluating the case, decided not to use its veto power.

According to the MRC, North Hatley’s demolition bylaw complies with the regional sustainable development plan, and the MRC’s planning committee recommended allowing the municipality’s decision to stand. The information provided by the MRC highlights that while it had the option to intervene, it chose not to impose additional conditions on the demolition permit.

For Action Patrimoine, this situation reflects a broader problem. Executive Director Renée Genest expressed concern over the lack of proper upkeep of heritage buildings across Quebec. “Despite the refusal of the demolition permit, the citizen and organizational opposition, and the absence of a clear plan for the site’s future, it seems the demolition will go ahead,” she said in an Aug. 26 statement provided to The Record.

Genest emphasized that this demolition could have been avoided had there been consistent maintenance of the building, which reportedly received little to no care since 2017. “This case exemplifies a demolition that could have been avoided with regular upkeep,” she added. “Unfortunately, it is evident that heritage is still not viewed as a collective asset worth preserving.”

Despite their disappointment, Action Patrimoine remains committed to monitoring the situation closely. The organization is exploring possible avenues for further action, including seeking guidance from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs on what can be done when municipal bylaws on heritage preservation are not adequately enforced.

For now, the fate of 190 Main Street appears sealed, leaving heritage advocates concerned about the future of other historic properties in Quebec. “The preservation of our heritage is a shared responsibility between owners and municipalities,” said Genest, underscoring the urgent need for stricter regulations and enforcement.