Former Our Lady Of The Rosary Catholic Church Changes Hands
Thursday April 16th, 2015, 10:23am
Hello time traveller!!
This article is 3529 days old.
The information listed below is likely outdated and has been preserved for archival purposes.
Waters Edge Event Centre has formally taken possession of the former Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic church on Riverside Drive East. The sale was first announced on December 3rd, 2013.
The plan is to turn the building into an event and banquet facility.
“It is an honor to be able to repurpose such a beautiful and historic building into something that can once again serve the local community,” Larry Horwitz said. “The restoration is well under way. I would like to thank all those who have been part of the process, and especially those at the Diocese of London’s offices. They have been very accommodating and understanding of the process over the past number of months.”
Founded in 1881, the existing Our Lady of the Rosary church building, located in Ford City on Riverside Drive East was built in 1908.
A population boom in the first half of the 20th century resulted in the construction of nine new churches in the area surrounding Our Lady of the Rosary.
The Diocese says that changing demographics in the latter half of the century, restoration costs and the process of parish reorganization led to the closure of the church in 2007.
At the time, they hoped that a suitable owner would find a use for the former church.
“I am very pleased that Larry’s company is moving forward with this exciting project,” said Dave Savel, Episcopal Director of Administrative Services for the Diocese of London. “He has a proven track record in restoring and repurposing historic buildings. We wish him all the best.”
Water’s Edge Event Centre will become an event venue with a focus on elegant weddings, corporate gatherings, social events, non-profit galas, bridal receptions, wine tastings, business dinners, charity balls, holiday parties, reunions and more.
An open house will be held on May 6th, beginning at 5 pm.
You can see photos of the inside here.