The first college residence ever in Ontario is being torn down.
Lambton College is in the process of removing an outdated building from the north-end of the property.
Its North Building was celebrated as the first residence in the Ontario college system, but was also used for academic programming and office space.
It served students, employees, and the community for decades.
Director of Facilities Management Brent Thomas explained why the college decided to take down the building.
"It's really a part of our long-term plan to renew and modernize the area around our campus and to meet the evolving needs of students and the community," he said.
A revitalization plan was launched in 2015, which has welcomed new buildings and learning facilities.
Removing the building has been discussed for several years.
Thomas said the demolition is being done with safety in mind.
"The building really reached end-of-life. We worked really closely with the contractors at hand to ensure that the demolition is removed respectfully and that it comes down safely as well," he said. "We expect to have the remainder of the north building down in the next three weeks with full removal of everything on site probably in the next six weeks."
During the demolition, the EarlyON Child & Family Centre will remain open.
"It's really an important component of the college and it helps support some of our programs internally and it's certainly an important support for our community," said Thomas.
Following the demolition of the north building EarlyON will undergo minor exterior repair work where the buildings were connected.
Repairs are expected to be completed by early summer.
There are currently no plans to replace the building.