The recent incident of two buildings partially collapsing near Gore Park in Hamilton, Ontario has raised concerns about neglected heritage buildings in the area. The buildings, located at 24 and 28 King St. E., had been boarded up and vacant for some time before the collapse occurred. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and the fire department’s drone unit conducted inspections to ensure the safety of the surrounding area.

City officials have been actively monitoring the properties and enforcing compliance with building code requirements. Despite issuing an order to comply with the building owner in July, concerns about the structural integrity of the buildings remained unaddressed. As a result, further enforcement actions were initiated last week to hold the property owner accountable and ensure the safety of the structures.

Moving forward, the city is working with the owner to conduct thorough evaluations of the buildings and plan for their demolition. Efforts will be made to salvage any heritage features that can be safely retained during the demolition process. Mayor Andrea Horwath has emphasized the importance of strengthening enforcement processes to prevent similar incidents and protect the community.

The recent building collapse serves as a reminder of the need for proactive measures to maintain the safety and integrity of heritage structures in Hamilton. By prioritizing compliance with building codes and conducting regular inspections, the city aims to prevent future incidents and preserve the architectural significance of historic buildings.

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