The former General Amherst High School property in Amherstburg, Ontario, could be redeveloped under a rezoning application that requires preserving the site's heritage features. The city committee approved the application on July 7, 2026, allowing for a large-scale development that balances new construction with historical conservation.
Heritage preservation requirements
The approved rezoning mandates that any redevelopment must incorporate the existing school building's heritage elements, including its façade and architectural details. Developers are required to submit a heritage impact assessment before proceeding. The property, located at 300 Sandwich Street South, has been vacant since the school closed in 2019.
According to the town's planning department, the site is designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, meaning any changes must be reviewed by the municipal heritage committee. The rezoning allows for mixed-use development, including residential units, commercial space, and community amenities.
Community input and next steps
Public consultations were held in May 2026, with residents expressing support for preserving the school's historic character while adding housing. The developer, who has not been named publicly, plans to retain the main building's structure and repurpose it for community use.
“We are committed to working with the town to ensure the heritage of this site is respected,” said a spokesperson for the developer in a statement to CTV News Windsor. The next step is a detailed site plan application, which will include specific design proposals and a timeline for construction.
Broader context of school redevelopments
Amherstburg has seen several former school properties redeveloped in recent years, including the old Amherstburg Public School, which was converted into affordable housing. The General Amherst site is one of the largest remaining vacant school properties in the region, spanning 4.2 hectares. The town expects the project to add approximately 200 residential units and create jobs during construction.
