It is straight out of the Hamilton demolition by neglect script.
Aventus Developments began demolition of the historic Tivoli Auditorium on Monday morning without seeking demolition permits from the City of Hamilton.
Shortly after 1:30 p.m., this reporter (Joey Coleman), visited the site after learning demolition had begun. The City learned of the demolition from the reporter.
Immediately upon learning about the demolition, the City dispatched a building inspector to issue a stop work order and an Order to Comply.
Ward 2 Councillor Cameron Kroetsch says there is “no excuse” for the developer’s negligence, adding the illegal start “completely undermines their credibility” with the City and the community.
“They’re aware of the process and they know the rules.”
Kroetsch says he is “following up with City staff to find out more about what happened and what remedies exist.”
At this time (Tuesday, September 16), no further information is available.
There were no visible dust mitigation measures in place during Monday’s demolition work.
In January, Hamilton City Council approved the demolition of the heritage-designated structure after a 193-page engineering report determined the building was “past the point of restoration,” citing structural failure, asbestos contamination, and widespread mold.
Without a permit, there is no means to know if public safety requirements for asbestos mitigation and containment have been met.
Demolition work has ceased following the order.
Aventus plans to replace the auditorium with two towers of 32 to 35 storeys each.
A new zoning and official plan amendment application is required. No planning application is currently listed for 108 James Street North.
Production Details
v. 1.0.0
Published: September 16, 2025
Last updated: September 16, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman
Update Record
v. 1.0.0 original version