NEW COURTHOUSE A MAGNIFICENT FACILITY
BROCKVILLE - Citizens of Leeds-Grenville
are in for a real treat when they get a chance
to explore the new Counties Courthouse Complex
in Brockville, said MPP Bob Runciman today.
Runciman toured the building Thursday with
Judge Paul Cosgrove, an original member of the
Courthouse users group that advised the Ontario
government on the renovation-expansion project.
The project cost about $12 million and took
about five years to reach completion.
Court staff moved into the building on August
23 although there are some finishing touches
to be completed.
“This is a truly impressive building.
The architects and builders have done a magnificent
job,” said Runciman.
“I was determined that the building be
restored rather than abandoned in favour of
a new building because of the recognized historic
significance of the building and its importance
to the economic wellbeing of the downtown core,”
said Runciman.
“The former Attorney General Charles
Harnick was always supportive of my efforts
to restore the building despite internal ministry
pressure for a new building,” continued
Runciman. “He deserves our thanks.”
The most impressive feature of the project
is the marriage of modern functionality with
the historical décor of a building that
has served Leeds-Grenville for more than 160
years. The building houses five courtrooms,
offices for judges, the Crown Attorneys, defence
lawyers, interview rooms, and even holding cells.
Incorporation of the original stonework, wooden
floors, and stone flooring into the design makes
the appearance of the building even more impressive.
The historic courtroom is tastefully done while
the modern amenities needed for a court operation
are unobtrusive to the design. The second jury
courtroom in the space formerly occupied by
the counties council chamber is equally as imposing.
The breathtaking view to the south that features
downtown Brockville with the background of the
St. Lawrence River recalls a bygone era when
the original citizens recognized the importance
of establishing a prominent Courthouse Building
as a key ingredient of the community’s
future.
The entranceway into the building from Jail
Street on the north side opens into a huge lobby/waiting
room that is striking in its appearance and
functionality. The stone walls of the County
Jail form the east wall in the open concept
space providing a picturesque contrast to the
new courtrooms that open on two floors on the
west side of the lobby.
Judge Cosgrove, an ardent history advocate,
was effusive in his praise for the new facility.
“This building is here because of the
efforts of Bob Runciman,” praised Cosgrove.
“I know that he had to work hard to convince
the Ontario government that the preservation
of this wonderful facility was important not
just to Brockville, but the administration of
justice in Ontario.”
He believes the courthouse is a community asset
that should be available for other uses connected
with the city.
“This would be a wonderful place for
the City of Brockville to host its annual New
Year’s Levee,” he said.
Historically that would be appropriate since
early Brockville councils used the building
for its meetings and home for its administration.
In an earlier news report, defence lawyer Mike
O’Shaughnessy, another member of the users’
committee, said while the project has taken
longer than expected the wait will prove worthwhile.
“The new courthouse is going to be beautiful,”
he said. “It’s an example of taking
something old and bringing it into modern times.
In its old form, it served the community for
over 150 years and will do the same in its new
form.”
Judge Cosgrove, the acting court administrator,
says visiting judges have been very vocal in
expressing their praise for the new facility.
Local lawyer Bob Wilson who oversees the Legal
Aid program, can’t say enough about the
new courthouse and its spectacular design.
“It’s definitely money well spent
and thanks to the Conservative Government for
moving ahead with this project during tough
financial times,” said Wilson. “It’s
wonderful.”
“The Counties Courthouse is a valuable
asset, not only for Brockville but all of Leeds-Grenville,”
said Runciman. “I am extremely proud of
this building and I am positive the citizens
of Leeds-Grenville will share this pride.”
Runciman has no information yet when the Ontario
government will organize the official opening
of the new complex but he hopes it’s soon.
He anticipates the planned open house for the
general public will also go ahead because this
is a facility that belongs to the citizens of
Ontario.
(Photo included shows Bob Runciman (right)
and Judge Paul Cosgrove in the picturesque lobby/waiting
room just inside the Jail Street entrance.)
Media Contact:
Don Swayne
Constituency Executive Assistant
(613) 342-9522
