Commerical Properties buys Union Club in Saint John

Heritage advocates are pleased with word Saint John's Union Club building is being purchased by a company with a track record in historic restoration.

Commercial Properties previously renovated an entire square block of heritage buildings on King Street to create CenterBeam Place.

It is also behind the renovation of the British Military Ordinance Store, a recognized federal heritage building at 274 Sydney St.

The Union Club building is an impressive three-storey, red-brick structure with bay windows overlooking the intersection of Germain and Princess streets. It was originally built as a private businessmen's club in 1890.

While the building is attractive, it is long overdue for expensive upgrades that club members say are beyond their means.

John Irving, the president of Commercial Properties, says the club approached his company because of its background in preserving heritage buildings.

"We have a certain expertise in looking after them and doing the repairs that are necessary," said Irving.

"They asked us if we were interested and we said, 'Well, we'll take a look at it.'"

Although the deed has yet to change hands the arrangement will see the club remain as the tenant.

"We'll be able to look after it well and I'm sure they'll be in it for a long long time," said Irving.

"I think that will be good for everybody."

The club long ago opened its doors to women and is making a serious attempt to reach out to the under-30 crowd.

John Barry, a member, said he is thrilled with the purchase and lease-back arrangement.

"The fact that Commercial Properties stepped in is a very, very positive thing," says Barry,

"It's a property we can't afford to lose."

Bob Boyce, the chairman of the city's Heritage Development Board, said he is also pleased with the arrangement.

"That's great news," said Boyce,

"Commercial Properties has a track record of taking some older historic properties and doing a wonderful job with them."