Recently re-inforced boarded up doors and windows at the Husky Market on Terminal Ave. in Nanaimo is hoped to deter squatters and others from using the abandoned building. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

ABANDONED BUILDING

Demolition pending for burned Nanaimo gas station after evidence of squatters, drug use

Oct 15, 2021 | 5:26 AM

NANAIMO — A scorched and abandoned gas station is more than just an eyesore for area residents.

The Husky Market and gas station on Terminal Ave., near Maffeo Sutton Park went up in flames in early October 2020. After the fire, the property was fenced and boarded up, however the extra measures weren’t enough for some.

Karen Kuwica, from the local Newcastle Community Association, said security measures were repeatedly stripped away in the 12 months since with a recent site visit showing fences opened and used needles on the ground.

“It’s apparently been resecured over and over again, it’s been an ongoing problem…people trying to access the site. The neighbourhood sees the effects of that squatting and the site being used, breached basically.”

A recent survey of the closed Husky gas station on Terminal Ave. in Nanaimo showed breached fences, evidence of squatting and drug use at the burned building. (submitted photos/Newcastle Community Association)

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The neighbourhood association has an ongoing dialogue with the City and its enforcement wings, including Nanaimo RCMP, Fire Rescue and bylaw officers. The association has also had numerous chats with Husky’s parent company, Cenovus Energy.

Whilst not a problem exclusive to the Newcastle area, safety concerns related to abandoned buildings are present among the neighbourhood’s residents.

“Properties that are vacant and not secured, they pose an invitation for an element of the population that doesn’t contribute to the community’s approach to block watch, safety and security.”

The fire in October 2020 at the Husky Market on Terminal Ave. was mainly confined to the back of the building, however extensive damage occurred inside as a result of the firefighting efforts. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

Cenovus was unable make anyone available for an interview however Reg Curren, senior advisor for media and issues management, said in an email “we are working with our service providers to make sure this site is as secure as possible and will be having people check it more frequently.”

The City of Nanaimo continues to monitor the property, but won’t step in with any mandated actions unless the building itself poses an immediate threat to public safety, such as collapsing walls.

Jeremy Holm, City director of development approvals, said Cenovus has indicated plans to demolish the building, remediate the property and put it up for sale.

Neither Curren or Holm could offer a timeline for when demolition of the building would occur.

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alex.rawnsley@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @alexrawnsley