New Westminster residents can expect to see survey work going on at the old Gasworks site on 12th Street at Third Avenue in New Westminster over the next few days.

Due to the site’s original use as a coal gasification plant, and subsequent use as a foundry, paint manufacturing facility, and sash and door manufacturing operation, further investigation to determine the levels of contamination is required at the site.

The Province and the City of New Westminster are working collaboratively to come up with potential development plans for the site. However, prior to any redevelopment of the property, site remediation is required. 

The City of New Westminster recently approved the demolition of the onsite heritage building due to its extremely poor and unsafe condition.

The site and building are owned and managed by the Province through the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development.

Prior to demolition, ministry staff are required to submit survey plans, dimensional drawings and photographs of the existing building to the City of New Westminster.