Gatineau council to vote on subdivision of historic Aylmer property for new daycare centre

Sophie Demers 

A project has been proposed for the property located at 61 rue Principale. The plan details subdividing the property to construct a daycare centre with a capacity for 96 children. The address of this new building would be 59 rue Principale.

The current building at 61 Principale was built in 1855 for Robert Conroy, an important figure in Aylmer’s history. Born in Ireland in 1811, Conroy was a businessman and hotelier. He settled in Hull in 1830 where he operated a hotel. In 1841, he built the British Hotel in Aylmer.

Among his many businesses, he set up a sawmill in Deschênes. He served as a municipal councillor for many years and was mayor of Aylmer twice. He died in Aylmer in 1868. 

Various businesses were housed at 61 Principale over the years, such as Club 61. It is now used as a daycare centre. 

Gatineau estimates the value of the property at $2,371,800. The Service de l’Urbanisme et du Développement Durable is in favour of the project. 

The proposed project also includes plans to replace the wood siding on the shed attached to 61 Principale. For the new building, various aspects must be approved by the city as the property is a heritage site. The municipal council must also approve minor variances. 

Council will vote on approving this project during the August 26 council meeting.