The Coves: With the paint plant gone and a developer poised, will public access increase?

BY JOE BELANGER
LONDON FREE PRESS, CITY HALL REPORTER

A former paint factory that has long haunted neighbours of the Coves soon may be cleared for development.

A former paint factory that has long haunted neighbours of the Coves soon may be cleared for development.

The dilapidated factory buildings just off Springbank Drive were demolished quietly over the last few weeks.

Part of the land would be returned to its natural state. Another key component of the project would be providing the first "legitimate" public access to the Coves.

"I never thought I'd live long enough to see it happen," said Thom McClenaghan, president of the environmental group.

Steve Charest, president of Brantford developer King and Benton, said the company has met with community groups, city and provincial officials to reach agreement on the extent of a residential development.

"This is one of the largest brownfields outside the (Greater Toronto Area) and it's one of the most beautiful sites in the province," he said.


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