Condo pitch sharpens St. John's debate

Another proposal to convert a St. John's building into a condominium complex is bound to ignite debate on the future look of the city's downtown.

Details of a Halifax-based company's bid to convert the long-vacant Newfoundland Telephone building on Duckworth Street are expected to be made public Wednesday, marking the fourth condo proposal in the neighbourhood.

Proposals have already been made concerning the former CBC Radio building across the street, as well as the neighbouring BellAliant building. As well, in July, council voted to allow an Ontario company to tear down the Star of the Sea Hall on nearby Henry Street, to make way for a 48-unit building.

The plan for the old telephone building which is often coveredin graffiti and hasboards over its windows would see about 60 condos developed on the site.

"It's been an eyesore for it must be more than 15 years," said downtown resident Mark Peddle. "We're in a bit of an economic boom here, and the downtown scene,this particular part of the city, is welcome for condos."

The Duckworth Street proposal may draw attention from residents who have been concerned about an over-emphasis on condominium development, or whether the design may detract from the downtown's heritage appeal.

Coun. Frank Galgay said he hopes the re-development ofthe decrepit building will respect the past of St. John's while helping to move it forward.

"I think the developer and his consultants will be sensitive to the ambience of the downtown and [will] put a building there that can be attractive and fit in with the particular neighbourhood," Galgay said.