As city ponders derelict building bylaw, still no timeline for Sudbury hospital redevelopment

Greater Sudbury is considering implementing a derelict building bylaw that aims to prevent another fiasco like the former hospital on Paris Street. (File)

Greater Sudbury is considering implementing a derelict building bylaw that aims to prevent another fiasco like the former hospital on Paris Street.

The former Sudbury General Hospital on Paris Street has become a highly visible eyesore right beside Bell Park.

The hospital closed in 2010, around the time that three city hospitals merged into a single site at Health Sciences North.

Building owner Panoramic Properties originally planned a condominium development in 2013, but a lengthy planning approvals process led to delays. Eventually, market conditions changed and the condo plan was shelved.

An 80,000-square-foot mural was completed at the site by street artist RISK in summer 2019.

The mural has since deteriorated, with the bright colours gradually blending in. The fact it is located in a prominent spot on the shores of Ramsey Lake has made it an especially visible source of frustration for many residents.

Panoramic's plan includes three new buildings on the site, including a 20-storey condominium, 16-storey urban loft (rental) building and a 12-storey retirement residence, providing a total of 222 condominium units, 199 apartments, and 109 retirement guest suites. (Supplied)

In August 2023, Panoramic again announced major redevelopment plans, but not timelines or a proposed budget.

On Thursday, Panoramic said there is nothing new to report.

“Unfortunately, at this point in time we are unable to provide any updated information as we are working in tandem with the city in finalizing plans and timelines,” Panoramic said in an email.

A report headed to city council March 19 outlines the current situation in Sudbury with derelict buildings, as well as what other communities are doing.

Most communities are like Sudbury, the report said, and use their existing property standards bylaw to deal with vacant buildings, including North Bay and Sault Ste. Marie.

However, the report said, there isn’t enough data yet to evaluate the effectiveness of the bylaw.

Read the full report here.