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Constructed in 1872 for prominent politicians, merchants and shipbuilders Lemuel Owen and William Welsh, the Italianate Commercial-style building on Queen Street (later known as the Kayes Bros. Building) played an important role in the commercial history of Charlottetown. The large, four-storey structure with decorative brickwork, round-arched windows and row of three storefronts with large plate glass, wooden piers, and signband, it is one of the most impressive along the historic streetscape.
Over the years it was home to prominent newspapers and important local retail and commercial activities, but it is best known for its wholesale grocery businesses (J.T. Peardon’s, R.E. Mutch and Company and later the Kays Brothers). It suffered three fires that have damaged the interior, but left the exterior walls intact.
The building is included as a Designated Heritage Resource as per Appendix A in the City of Charlottetown Zoning and Development Bylaw.
Today, APM has undertaken an intensive restoration project of the building and is committed to maintaining the history and original structure of the building. With the co-operation of the City of Charlottetown and the Heritage Board, APM has started to add an additional 35,000 square feet to the complex, expanding to the corner of Queen and Water streets.
In total, APM is investing $10.3 million towards the entire project and expects numerous retailers and offices to locate there. EA Canada has signed on to occupy the space as well as Campbell Lea, Barristers and Solicitors. When complete, the Welsh Owen Building will be prime retail and office space in Charlottetown's downtown core. Interested tenants can contact Business Development Manager Jerry Leblanc for more information at 1-902-569-8400.
News Release - Vision for former Kays Building finalized