A vacant Uptowne Olds building with a collapsed roof, punctured walls, asbestos and extensive animal waste will be demolished under a court order, the town says.
In a Sept. 8 release, the town said the property at 5033 51 Street has been empty for an extended period and shows visible signs of structural decline. The conditions pose safety concerns and have a negative impact on the area, the town said.
The town said it is proceeding under the authority of the Municipal Government Act and a court order issued in early 2025.
It said repeated efforts were made to work with the property owners through the bylaw process, but when those failed the town sought and obtained a court order to take control of the site.
An evaluation by Alberta’s Ministry of Arts, Culture and Status of Women determined the building did not meet criteria for a provincial heritage designation.
Demolition planning is underway, including asbestos remediation. The town said work will be carried out “in a timely, responsible manner with public safety, neighbourhood standards, and minimal disruption as top priorities.”
Costs will be incurred by the town and billed to the landowner. Any unpaid amounts will be added to the tax roll.
“Demolition is always a last resort, pursued only when safety, community well-being, and the overall integrity of the surrounding community are at stake,” the town said in a statement.
The town said further updates will be provided as the project progresses.
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