NLIS 3
October 12, 2005
(Transportation and Works)
Contract awarded for demolition of
portions of the former Grace Hospital
Tom Rideout, Minister of Transportation and
Works, today announced that a contract has been awarded for the demolition of
portions of the former Grace Hospital. Eastern Demolition and Recyclers Limited,
St. John�s, has been awarded a contract valued at $588,800 to demolish the 1920s
and 1950s portions of the former hospital.
Minister Rideout said, �In Budget 2005, $5.4 million was allocated for the
environmental remediation and demolition of buildings. This included portions of
the former Grace Hospital. With the awarding of this contract, government is now
in the position to follow through on this commitment.�
The minister added that government intends to proceed with the demolition of two
portions of the former hospital following the completion of the environmental
remediation process. These procedures have been ongoing over the past number of
weeks.
�The 1920s wing of the hospital will be ready for demolition within the next two
weeks,� said Minister Rideout. �The environmental clean-up of this portion of
the building is near completion and its demolition will immediately follow. The
1950s portion will then undergo the remediation process and when completed this
wing will be demolished.�
Minister Rideout says government will not pursue any options for the future of
the remaining portion of the Grace Hospital until the 1920s and 1950s wings have
been demolished.
�These portions of the hospital are in no condition to be further developed,�
said the minister. �Our primary concerns are public safety and the protection of
our environment. As such, the demolition of these sections of the hospital is
essential and it will eliminate the heating and security costs currently
associated with the building, in the interest of wisely managing public monies.
When the 1920s and 1950s wings have been demolished, government can proceed with
addressing the future of the remaining portion of the hospital.�
It is anticipated that the demolition of both portions of the hospital will be
completed before the end of the year.
Media contact: Lori Lee Oates, ABC, Communications, (709) 729-3015, 690-8403
2005 10 12
9:35 a.m.
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