Leeds and Thousand Islands greenlights restoration of Escott Hall and Springfield House
Two aging landmarks in the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands are getting a second lease on life.
Council has approved a $1.07 million restoration of Escott Hall and Springfield House, two municipal buildings in Ward 3 that have stood for generations but are now in critical need of repairs.
The contract has been awarded to Phoenix Restoration Inc., a heritage specialist firm known for its work on Toronto’s Union Station and the Brockville train tunnel.
The Escott property, which also includes a garage and a sand dome, previously served as the municipal operations hub for the former Escott Township. Now part of TLTI’s Ward 3, the site has remained in use but has seen its buildings deteriorate over time.
The restoration will focus on structural integrity, accessibility, and efficiency.
The Escott Hall project will consist of masonry and roofing repairs, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)-compliant upgrades, a push-button entrance, an accessible washroom, and a kitchenette for volunteers. A lift to the second floor will ensure accessibility for archive members. And there will be efficiency upgrades, like HVAC improvements, insulation, and fire protection enhancements to make the buildings more sustainable.
“Once we’re done with this building, it will be high and dry and quite efficient,” David Holliday, the Township’s director of operations and infrastructure, assured council.
The Springfield House project will involve foundation excavation, waterproofing, masonry repairs, window replacements, a new roof, and improved drainage.
The overall project is well within TLTI’s 2025 capital budget of $1.26 million, council heard. And council has set aside a $142,815 contingency fund for unexpected costs, while staff continues to pursue grant opportunities, including the Trillium Fund’s capital stream, which reopened Feb. 5.
“We will continue to apply for whatever grants are available,” said Mayor Corinna Smith-Gatcke.