Apple Orchard House

This beautiful house is located in Elmira and situated on 5.5 acres of property containing an apple orchard.

The land was owned by Arlene Taylor up until her passing in 2006. After Arlene passed away, her family sold the property to real estate developer Hawk Ridge Homes who intended to demolish the house and construct 44 new homes on the property.

Hawk Ridge Homes applied to change the zoning of the property from industrial to residential, which would allow them to proceed with construction. A town meeting was held on September 1, 2009 to allow residents to provide their input.

Elmira residents expressed concerns regarding any new homes on the property because it happens to be located within short distance of the **** plant. Residents are concerned about potential odours, noise and leaks from the plant.

On September 27, 2010 a chemical spill at the **** plant left homes and cars splattered with brown residue. **** has also raised concerns about building new homes within short distance of their plant.

Hawk Ridge Homes feels that the process is taking too long and has filed an appeal with the Ontario Municipal Board.

While the issue of rezoning remains uncertain, the fate of the house seems almost certain to be demolition. On Sunday September 11, 2011 the roof and top floor were destroyed in an act of arson. Three teenagers (two adults) were charged.

Photo of fire source: http://observerxtra.com/2/featured/three-arrested-following-fire-at-abandoned-elmira-house/

From Seacell:

A little fruit-stand shack is all that is left. Lots of orchard trees growing apples. pears, and a few other fruits, and plenty of songbirds in the trees who like to eat them. Many bluejays will squawk at you in disgust for invading their territory.