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| Photo with much tree cover, May 2021 |
To: City of London Planning and Environment Committee (PEC) - Councillors S. Lehman, S. Lewis, P. Cuddy, S. Stevenson, and S. Hillier.
September 22, 2026
Re: Proposed demolition of the heritage-designated home at 100 Stanley Street, London.
Dear Councillors:
I understand that PEC will review a demolition request by the City of London for this designated property on the southeast corner of Wharncliffe Road South and Stanley Street. I urge you to turn down this application.
For years, I have read about the CN Rail Bridge expansion project and the apparent need to demolish the heritage home at 100 Stanley Street. It’s good to learn that there is now a less invasive plan for the bridge, reducing the need to dismantle the nearby house.
This 1893 house should be preserved. Its heritage attributes include: the largest keyhole window in London; working pocket doors with bevelled glass; rectangular newel post topped with a chess piece; elaborate woodwork on corner fireplace; ceramic tiles on either side of the fireplace featuring musical instruments; original light fixtures; three stained glass windows; upstairs oriel window with wood embellishments. All these features are well-preserved. What a pity if London’s city councillors were so short-sighted as to lose these treasures, or to decide that a “commemoration” of the building with an historic plaque is an adequate tribute.
I would point out that other heritage buildings in this city, such as Central Cat Hospital at 596 Adelaide Street North, have been retained in situ despite extensive construction nearby. Surely the same can occur at 100 Stanley.
If, despite arguments to the contrary, you decide that saving this house at its current location is impractical, please consider a creative solution: moving the house to a safer, less busy location on a nearby side street and offering it for sale to a private buyer.
Future generations of Londoners will thank you for your foresight in saving 100 Stanley Street.
Jennifer Grainger
For my remarks about 100 Stanley five years ago, see here.
It is important to acknowledge that the need to demolish is no longer necessary or justified. City Hall needs to rectify the damage done. Damage was done to the expropriated former owner and she should be compensated.. Damage to the building needs to be repaired. Be constructive and positive going forward.
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