Long-awaited Downtown Development Gets Underway

A new fully accessible 6,000 square foot church unit will be constructed for the congregation of All Saints, Hamilton as part of a multi-story condominium complex situated at 15 Queen Street South.

“After almost a decade, All Saints is thrilled to be returning ‘home’ to continue the legacy of ministry that has taken place on that corner for more than 140 years,” said the Reverend Ronda Ploughman, rector of the parish. “Although there are many wonderful memories connected to the old building, safety issues prevented us from staying there. The new space meets the needs of the church and community in ways that are much more consistent with ministry in the 21st century.”

Nearly two decades ago All Saints Church was damaged in an earthquake and in 2009 ongoing structural and safety issues forced the congregation to find temporary meeting space. Since then the diocese and the All Saints congregation have worked collaboratively to explore options for the property. Last summer the diocese entered into an agreement with Hamilton-based Rise Real Estate to redevelop the property into a new fully accessible church development that will include permanent meeting and worship space.

Consistent with the trend toward mixed-use neighbourhoods, the church exterior will be reminiscent of a storefront, showcasing the work of local artists and community partners and because of its multi-use character will be a valuable resource for its ministries and the community.

The property, now owned by the developer, is currently being prepared for construction including the demolition of the derelict church and its associated buildings. Efforts to preserve the heritage of the former church are being undertaken, and the altar, stone font, bell, and church cornerstones will be incorporated into the new church unit. Steps are also being taken to retain some of the limestone bricks, which will be carved and sold by a local artist. The congregation, long divested from the property, plans to honour its past, mourn the loss of the church and celebrate its renewed future at an upcoming event.  

The diocese and congregation had initially hoped that this property would be repurposed as a site for affordable housing while also ensuring the sustainability of the congregation’s ministry. Prior unsuccessful development attempts and several delays meant that other possibilities for affordable housing developments will need to be explored.