port union fish plant and retail store

Reconstruction and Restoration of this project started in July of 2009 and was substantially completed in March of 2012. Prior to the construction start-up, a major site and building environmental clean-up was undertaken. This 75,000 ft² structure was in a serious state of structural deterioration. In fact, much more severe than could be determined by visual observations. When the asbestos shingles were removed, it was discovered that large portions of the exterior wall and floor framing in the Retail Store would have to be removed. All the exterior wall sheathing and roof decking, as well as the parapets had to be removed and replaced. The internal structural components were intact but the external elevator towers had to be completely removed from the Fish Plant. This reconstruction and adaptive reuse project, is as far as we are aware, the largest project of this kind to be undertaken in the Province.

About 20-25% of the extant building materials in the building envelope were maintained. The concrete foundation and heavy timber construction along the west face of the building required major upgrading and redesign. Work in this area was extremely difficult due to the confined space. Many of the former fish plant workers were engaged in hand excavation for several months.

The FPU Retail Store & Old Fish Plant in its new adapted form is truly an impressive structure. The quality of work by a hand full of skilled carpenters as well as numerous fish plant workers have achieved an exceptional and remarkable building. The founding fathers of the FPU would be very proud of their accomplishments. The reconstruction and adaptive reuse design has preserved this important significant structure for future generations. It is once again a significant architectural, historical and local landmark, and a testament to the people of Port Union, the Region and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

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