No interest in Banker’s Pub, says council

By Mark Squibb/December 9, 2022

Carbonear council is leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to revitalize downtown, but the old Banker’s Pub is one rock that refuses to rollover.

Well known to residents for it’s red brickwork, green trimming, and burnt out Star of David from some Christmas of yesteryear, the building seems resistant to the tides of change sweeping through the rest of the downtown.

The Town purchased the property during a tax auction in August 2021 for $10,000.

Following its purchase, the Town hired an engineering firm to conduct a visual assessment of the Banker’s Pub before opening the building for public viewing. DBS Consulting Engineers Ltd., completed the work for its bid cost of $2,450, HST included.

Following an inspection, the Town published a request for proposals for the sale of the property this past February with a closing date of April 1.

“The Town is seeking proposals for the purchase and development of 190 Water Street,” read the RFP. “This site offers a unique location for renovation of the existing structure. Given this site is in the Waterfront Heritage District, this site holds potential for many opportunities.”

The call for bids came to naught, however, as no submissions were received.

During a recent public meeting, council once again voted to put the Banker’s Pub back on the market.

Councillor Malcolm Seymour put forth a motion that, “as the RFP advertised has not yielded interest for 190 Water Street, the Town will tender the sale of property, with conditions of sale including a two-year development agreement with Carbonear council.”

The motion passed unanimously.

Sealed tenders will be received until Friday, December 2.