The Canada Malting plant in Montreal’s Sud-Ouest borough, known for the iconic “pink house,” is facing a potential collapse as per a recent engineering evaluation. The report highlights the risk posed by the deteriorating structure, particularly a detached facade wall hanging precariously over St-Ambroise Street.
According to the report by André Houle of STP ING inc., immediate controlled demolition is deemed the safest solution to eliminate the imminent danger to public safety. Concerns are raised about the potential winter and spring exacerbating the risk of collapse due to freeze-thaw cycles and seismic vibrations.
La Malterie inc., a subsidiary of Renwick, the site’s owner, has submitted a demolition request to the city. In response, a section of St-Ambroise Street will be temporarily closed. The city is reviewing the request to ensure the necessity of emergency demolition.
Plans for the site include a development project by La Malterie Inc. featuring 685 housing units, with 20% designated for social housing. The proposal also encompasses community spaces, businesses, and the preservation of the historic “pink house.”
Discussions have been ongoing between the developer, the city, and the community group À nous la Malting regarding the site’s future. While Renwick envisions a mixed-use development, the community group advocates for social housing and community-centered amenities.
The Canada Malting plant, built in 1905 and abandoned since 1985, has fallen into disrepair, attracting urban explorers despite safety risks. The engineering report underscores the critical condition of the building and the urgent need for preventative measures to avert potential disasters.
Engineer Houle emphasizes the need for immediate action to safeguard public safety and questions the delay in closing off the hazardous area. City officials stress the importance of adhering to safety protocols and ensuring compliance with stringent conditions for any future development on the historic site.
