Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Burlington is looking for feedback on a proposed land deal with the Halton District School Board (HDSB) and leasing arrangements with the HDSB and Brock University for the planned purchase of the Robert Bateman High School building and property.
The proposed transaction with the HDSB would see the city transfer ownership of approximately five acres of to the HDSB as a component of a land exchange for the Robert Bateman site. The city-owned land is located near Burlington Central High School and includes the high school football field and running track.
“The partnership between the City of Burlington and Brock University has been in the works for a number of years,” university president Gervan Fearon said in a statement. “This strategically located site being made available presents a unique economic development opportunity and aligns with our strategic objectives of attracting a post-secondary institution to Burlington. We see this as a big opportunity for the city and look forward to continuing our work with Brock University and the City of Burlington to attract a new post secondary institution to Burlington.”
A proposed land exchange would ensure the Robert Bateman site remains in public ownership for continued educational and community-oriented uses.
Feedback will also be sought on securing leases with the HDSB and Brock University for portions of the Bateman location. Both leases at Bateman are expected to be long-term leases not to exceed 25 years.
This engagement opportunity will be open until June 13 and then staff will present a final report and recommendations at the June 21 council meeting.
In June 2021, HDSB announced that it has declared Robert Bateman High School surplus to its needs.