Library pub saved

By Xavine Bryan

City council confirmed the Imperial Library Pub and Tavern will remain open once the Yonge and Dundas redevelopment project begins on Tuesday.

The city’s restructuring plans for the area threatened to close the 52-year-old pub.

Downtown area city councillor Kyle Rac says they decided to go ahead with redevelopment plans that will not affect the pub after reassessing their plans.

“I think that our perception of that block did not generate the public interest we thought it would,” he said.

Jack Newman, owner of the pub since 1950, is elated about the city’s decision.

“We’re very happy to be neighbours of the new development area,” he said. “That’s what we’ve wanted. That’s what we’ve been fighting for.”

Newman’s struggle to save the pub began last spring when the city was involved in assembling land and exploring plans for the redevelopment project.

The pub, which is located on the corner of Dundas St. and Victoria Lane, has been a favorite place for Ryerson students to relax after classes.

The first plan, which threatened the pub, involved developing property up to Bond Street. The second plan involved property up to Victoria Lane. Newman had been negotiating with the city to opt for the second plan.

“When the square is developed the pub will certainly be the warm nostalgic place it has always been,” he said. “I think it will add some charm to the new area.”