Encouraging Update on Concord, NH Gasholder from N.H. Preservation Alliance
Liberty Utilities, the N.H. Preservation Alliance, and the City of Concord have made meaningful progress toward saving the landmark Concord Gasholder, so much so that Liberty will not be seeking a demolition permit at this time. Liberty also plans to pledge the funds that would have been spent on demolition and related costs to the preservation effort. The three parties are working on a road map for phased investments that would start with emergency stabilization this summer. There is a lot more to do, but we’re making good progress thanks to advice and support from people like you across the City, state and country.
The future is beginning to look bright for this one-of-a-kind landmark in Concord, NH.
The N.H. Preservation Alliance listed the gasholder on its Seven to Save list last fall because of its national significance and redevelopment potential after Liberty announced plans to seek a demolition permit. The Preservation Alliance has hosted public forums, helped support redevelopment analysis and nominated the building for national Most Endangered status and a federal historic preservation grant. A preservation/redevelopment feasibility report produced by ADG Consultants (January 2021) for an ad hoc City committee of city councilors and business, real estate and preservation experts emphasized initiating the emergency stabilization as soon as possible as part of a phased approach. The report also underscored the importance of a commitment by Liberty to make the preservation project financially viable, the essential nature of using a mix of private and public funds, and the proximity of the gasholder site to downtown, the Merrimack River, residential neighborhoods and two highway exits.
Check out this drone video if you haven’t yet on Visit ConcordNH’s Facebook page.
Share action items and news with friends, neighbors and colleagues through the Save Our Gasholder’s web-site.
We welcome your questions, suggestions and discussions about pledges of volunteer or financial support, and very much appreciate your involvement!