Performing arts centre not ruled out by City as a possible use for Daily News building

NEWS — A new performing arts centre isn’t out of the question for the former Daily News building at 393 Seymour St., says parks, recreation and culture director Byron McCorkell.

The City announced earlier today it has reached a deal to buy the building and the parking lot across the back alley for $4.8 million.

McCorkell told The Armchair Mayor News the first consideration in purchasing the former department store/ newspaper building was as a future site for a parkade, but it also meets the criteria for a performing arts centre.

“It’s fair to say one of the considerations going forward is that we now have the opportunity to look at it,” he said.

“Right now the land conversation is about a parkade.”

But he said if City council approves the $260,000 for further studies on a performing arts centre requested by staff, the Daily News property could be considered within those studies.

“If the two match up, then sure.”

He said the location fits the “cultural precinct” concept for an arts centre, and “It’s a big chunk of land.”

McCorkell didn’t know if there are any potential tenants for the building until the City makes a decision on how the property will be used.