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Former Maliboo building prepped for demolition

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A landmark in downtown Simcoe is about to disappear from Robinson Street.

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A fence went up around the former Maliboo Club this week. Workers are at the scene preparing the 19th-century building for demolition.

Once the lot has been levelled and the rubble removed, plans are to replicate the structure that stood there in the 1800s when it was known as the Queen’s Hotel.

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Financial adviser Kevin van der Laan of Dundas, a partner in the project, says the weather in the weeks ahead will determine when the demolition occurs and when contractors move in to build the new structure.

“I’d love to be pouring footings on Feb. 3, but I don’t see that happening,” van der Laan said Thursday. “We’re sort of in a hurry up-and-wait mode.”

A1 Demolition of Ancaster has been awarded the contract to remove the building.

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Demolition preparation includes inspecting the building for toxic materials such as asbestos. A worker at the scene Thursday was scraping paint flakes off the exterior in case they contain airborne dust hazards such as lead.

“It’s a shame we have to take it down to rebuild it,” van der Laan said. “But it’s just been neglected for so long.”

Plans are to rebuild the structure as close to original specifications as possible. This includes a column-supported portico overhanging Robinson Street.

The new building will have an area of about 10,000 square feet over two floors. Five apartments are planned for the second floor while another three will be at ground level. Another 1,400 square feet at street level will serve as a storefront for an IPC investment office.

The former Maliboo Club was a licensed establishment showcasing exotic dancers. Before that, it was called The Village Pump and served as a venue for exotic dancers and live music. The building has sat dormant for about 10 years.

MSonnenberg@postmedia.com

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