Niagara College is set to end its tenancy at the Aurora Armoury at the end of this month.
The college had a five-year deal with the town dating back to 2019, which is set to elapse at the end of January. The Armoury Café at Aurora Town Square will continue to be run by Niagara College until June 2025.
“Since signing their lease with the town in 2019, as the first tenant of our world-class multi-purpose event space, Niagara College has been a valued partner, bringing their expertise and dedication to operating The Armoury and more recently to The Armoury Café,” Mayor Tom Mrakas said in a news release.
“Together, we created dynamic spaces that offered residents and visitors exceptional dining experiences while showcasing innovative culinary education,” he added. “We wish Niagara College further success as they pursue their new strategic priorities.”
The town added that all event bookings at The Armoury will continue to be honoured throughout the transition, and customers will be contacted directly regarding their reservations.
Mrakas added there is not currently a formal tender process underway, with the town exploring a “range of opportunities” for both The Armoury and The Armoury Café, including "potential partnerships, programming and tenancy options.”
“This five-year partnership has been a great opportunity for Niagara College, and we’re grateful for the platform it has provided to showcase our expertise in culinary, beverage and hospitality,” Niagara College’s vice-president of research, innovation and strategic enterprises, Marc Nantel, said in a news release.
Nantel thanked the town and community members for supporting the endeavour.
“This is an exciting time for our community,” added Mrakas. “We have the opportunity to explore new partnerships that will build on the financial success and strong foundation established through our partnership with Niagara College ensuring these valuable spaces continue to reflect Aurora’s spirit of innovation, collaboration and community pride."
Aurora bought The Armoury building at 89 Mosley St. at Town Park from the federal government in 2014. The town restored the property, which is recognized as a federal heritage building.
Originally built in 1874 as a drill shed for the 12th Battalion of Infantry or York Rangers, an event was held to mark the building's 150th anniversary in September last year.
The town opened The Armoury in 2019.
