The City of Hamilton is preparing to issue a demolition permit for 96 John Street South in response to a professional engineer’s report, which states that the building has structural damage and significant deterioration of critical load-bearing elements.
This is the second long-vacant and decaying building on John Street South in Downtown Hamilton to be condemned following the City’s first building inspection blitz in over a decade. After over a decade without a roof, 21 John Street South will be demolished by the end of May.
The building at 96 John Street South was originally constructed around 1875. It is not a heritage-designated structure.
An engineer’s report by professional engineer James Samuel states:
“The building has extensive structural damage, with significant deterioration affecting critical load-bearing elements. The severity of these deficiencies compromises the building’s stability and safety, making restoration technically challenging and financially unfeasible.”
City Responding to Public Outcry After Gore Buildings Collapse
On November 11, 2024, multiple vacant buildings suddenly collapsed onto Gore Park in Downtown Hamilton. Luckily, the collapse occurred at approximately 6:12 a.m. between Remembrance Day ceremonies, and nobody was injured or killed.
The City inspected the buildings on November 8. The City of Hamilton has not provided any further details, and a report on the collapse has been delayed.
No date for the demolition has been announced.
Production Details
v. 1.0.1
Published: April 21, 2025
Last updated: April 21, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman
Update Record
v. 1.0.0 original version
v. 1.0.1 added 'South' to headline for clarity.