Sherbrooke's Reservists are vital to our Canadian Armed Forces and an important part of their local community. The Government is committed to preserving the historical value of the buildings in which they operate, while ensuring their operational needs are met.
To this end, Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence, announced today that the Department of National Defence, in consultation with stakeholders, will restore Sherbrooke's William Street Armoury and renovate the Colonel-Gaëtan-Côté Armoury (Belvédère Street Armoury). The Minister was joined by Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Compton-Stanstead; and Élisabeth Brière, Member of Parliament for Sherbrooke, for this important announcement.
Following an extensive evaluation of Primary Reserve infrastructure in the region, including various studies and public consultation, the Department of National Defence will start a recapitalization project to renovate the Belvédère Street Armoury. The project is expected to be tendered for design after a full assessment of our Reservists' needs is completed, and the necessary project approvals are obtained.
The significance of the William Street Armoury to the Sherbrooke community was reaffirmed by community members during public consultations that were held by the Department of National Defence earlier this year. The Department will retain the services of heritage consultants and work closely with the City of Sherbrooke to restore the William Street Armoury in a manner that preserves its historical value. After a full assessment of the needs of our Reservists, and engagement with heritage experts, a plan to restore the William Street Armoury, in consultation with stakeholders, will be created. This plan may include an additional location to accommodate the increasing needs of Sherbrooke's Reservists.
Through these efforts, we are ensuring Reservists in Sherbrooke have modern facilities that meet their long-term infrastructure needs, while preserving the history and heritage of our Reserve units. These investments will enable our Reservists to continue to call their armouries home well into the future. We know how important these armouries are to the Sherbrooke community, and we are committed to working closely with the City of Sherbrooke and keeping the community engaged as our plans and timelines are developed.
