Fez For Sale

280307_fezbatik.jpgSigns had been up for awhile, announcing the sale of the building on the corner of Peter and Richmond, formerly known as nightclub Fez Batik. I passed often on my way up to Queen wondering what the next incarnation would bring. Maybe it would be another stuffy joint catering to lines of men in black leather, or a techno club for kids jacked up on Red Bull. If we were lucky, I'd thought, it would once again find the laid-back vibe of those who loved Fez, and the summer scene would once again jump to life on its patio. Seems though, that future plans may bring an entirely different kind of crowd.

The City is in the works to purchase the site in the hopes of facilitating the needs of homeless and displaced people in the downtown core. The centre would be open around the clock and provide beds and counseling to get people back on their feet. In theory it sounds like a beautiful thing. However, in reality, I can't imagine a worse place for these kinds of social services. With music pumping and littering drunkards spilling out of clubs looking for confrontation comfort and stability will be the last thing anyone will find in the middle of our Entertainment District.

A community meeting to discuss the plans will be held tonight, 6:30PM, at Metro Hall - Room 308.

Reader Reviews and Comments

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Well said Sookie! Sometimes I wonder who does the thinking for our city. Ugg!

Posted by: John at March 28, 2007 3:47 PM

I've heard that the rent is in the $40,000 range. Also their liquor licence has expired and the city isn't granting more in that area at the moment.

Posted by: Zach at March 28, 2007 4:20 PM

I think it should be a Coffee Time.

Posted by: Ratni at March 28, 2007 6:22 PM

what a great use of prime commercial space in the heart of a major tourist area.

This should create some major headaches for the cops that police the area on any given Saturday night. I guess the bar owners can easily get rid of empty beer and wine bottles now. Maybe the streets will be cleaner?

Posted by: courtney at March 28, 2007 7:42 PM

Too true Sookie. This is not the ideal locale for an intervention program, yet this is a common strategy by city planners. One look at Jarvis and College will confirm my accusation. We should be placing these individuals in established areas, while livening up our fairly small downtown core strip.

Posted by: liz at April 3, 2007 11:01 AM

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