Private sector investment in the form of revitalization, remediation and development has turned a once industrial corridor in Merritton/St.Catharines into a booming commercial and retail node. The area along Glendale Ave., Merritt St. and Hartzel Rd., though firmly established, continues to grow with both residential and commercial entities. The strength of these commercial developments has directly spurred new subdivision development in the area and is helping to build up Merritton.
Much of the commercial redevelopment can be attributed to Donatelli Productions Ltd., and developer/owner Nino Donatelli. Donatelli first revitalized the Keg restaurant from an old rubber factory, then moved onto the Lybster Mill property, effectively creating the Stone Mill Inn and Johnny Rocco’s. Now his work continues on the property adjacent, where a multi-residential building is currently in construction.
Stone Mill Inn commercial additions
In 2012, it was reported that an eight-storey condo building would be constructed beside the Stone Mill Inn building. The condo, now 6-storeys, is currently in construction. It will be built on a former Domtar building foundation. Plans for the 6 acres of development land also include a 200-unit seniors residence. The project will cost approximately $15 million dollars and was approved in February under the St. Catharines CIP program.
The Stone Mill Inn’s redevelopment was completed in 2012, featuring a re-adaptive use construction that saw significant remediation and the restoration of the former Lybster Mill building. The commercial building now houses a thirty-five unit hotel, a large restaurant, spa and office units.
Merritton Residential Development
Also planned on former Domtar land (10 acres ) is a 125 unit housing track. This development is located between Oakdale Ave. and Hartzel Rd. behind the new fire hall. This project is spearheaded by Donatelli partner and president of the Merritton Mill Redevelopment Corp., Art Ellis. While Merritton residential growth has been small over the past decade, the boom of the new commercial centre has increased its appeal as a desirable place to live.
Just down the street from Johnny Rocco's, more residential development is occurring. Along Walnut street, new 3 storey and 2 storey semi-detached rental units have been constructed, with more planned for the short term. The new subdivision and surrounding developments with modern designs would likely not have been as desirable without the private sector commercial investments in this old industrial corridor.
The success of both Donatelli and Ellis’ investments have transformed a former industrial corridor into one of the most busyretail and commercial areas within the city. The area wins support from both residents, Brock students and residents of Thorold.
