Centre Wellington council approved the demolition two heritage properties in Elora this week.

The properties, constructed back in 1859, are located at 19 East Mill Street (a stone building), and 19 A East Mill Street (a red brick dwelling).

Mariana Iglesias, manager of planning services, made the presentation to township and heritage staff Monday and the owner was present at the meeting.

The proposal was to remove the building at the front of East Mill Street. The stone structure would remain for future restoration.

Meanwhile, the red brick building with stucco clad is to be fully demolished, as is the building at the front of East Mill Street.

There was a public meeting held in June regarding the structures. Centre Wellington Mayor Shawn Watters agreed it was bittersweet to say goodbye to the buildings.

"It was partly an emotional conversation happening, especially with the one building which is tied very clearly to our settlement history," Watters explained.

"It's a very sad thing, but the heritage committee agreed it had to come down. Unfortunately, what you would have to do to that building to bring it up to any standard would kind of negate its history," he added.

Watters said he was confident in the decision, and recognizes the effort that will be made to preserve the buildings' legacies.

"They will try to replicate that building on the adjacent lot, to kind of pay some homage to that building," Watters stated.

"I know the owner. I think originally the intent was to move that building and it just needs to come down," he said.

There is no distinct demolition timeline, as of right now, though the red brick building has been identified as a safety hazard and its removal is a priority.

The plan for the stone building is still to be decided, though commercial use is likely and a restaurant-type business was discussed.

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