City decision to relocate heritage home 'a slap in the face': homeowner

The city's final decision to relocate a 120-year-old heritage home is being described as a "slap in the face"by a defeated homeowner who's now considering taking her concerns to the province.

• Homeowner's final plea to save 120-year-old home hits roadblock

"I hoped that there would be enough councillors that would challenge the city staff on their plan but that didn't happen," said 75-year-old Nan Finlayson, whose 100 Stanley Street heritage home has to relocate to make way for a road widening project.

"I can't just set aside my responsibilities to defend my house and my property," said Finlayson, who's ready to take her plea to save her home to the Ministry of Environment.

City councillors approved an environmental assessment report Tuesday ona multi-million reconstructionof Wharncliffe Road to decrease congestion.

The report suggests creating north and south turning lanes near the CN rail bridge atWharcnliffeandHortonin order to improve the intersection. Thebridge will be replaced.ButFinlayson's home is currently in the way.

Alternatives

There wasn't much discussion among councillors on Tuesday, but the topic has hit the horseshoe in years past, prompting city staff to explore many options to save Finlayson's house from the wrecking ball.

• 'Leave us where we are': 100 Stanley Street homeowner pleads to city

Staff ultimately recommended a compromise of relocating the home across the street to the west side of Wharncliffe Road, south of Evergreen Avenue, that would cost taxpayers about $600,000.

Last year, city staff explored many alternatives including demolition and expropriating properties on the other side of the road.

Even with that, Finlayson said the move would have a "physical, mental and emotional effect on her," and would cause her to considerleaving the city and even the country.

"I can't stay in London and feel that discomfort and sadness," she said.

The report now moves to a 30-day public review period.