Quebec selects developer to transform abandoned Montreal heritage site into housing

A Montreal heritage building that has been largely abandoned for a decade is one step closer to becoming social housing.

A promise to purchase has been signed for the former Institut des Sourdes-Muettes on Berri Street, the Quebec government announced Monday.

Real estate developer Residia won the bid with a proposal that promises to combine urban development and social inclusion while increasing the supply of housing in Montreal, particularly off-market housing.

The sale is expected to go through by next spring, at which point construction can begin.

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Residia’s proposal, which was selected following what the Société québécoise des infrastructures (SQI) calls a “rigorous proposal analysis process,” will preserve the building’s heritage features.

The province is calling the promise to purchase a “major breakthrough” in the sale of the building.

“The selection of the developer marks a major step forward in transforming this iconic site into a truly vibrant living environment,” said France-Élaine Duranceau, the Quebec minister responsible for housing. “I was keen for this process to unite all partners around a shared vision: to address urgent housing needs while promoting inclusive, sustainable, and heritage-respecting urban development.

“This is concrete proof of what can be accomplished when we unite the community’s strengths around a shared vision to increase the supply of non-profit housing.”

A public consultation meeting will now be organized by the Plateau-Mont-Royal borough to present the project “in the interest of harmonious and respectful integration,” the SQI says.

A public call for proposals was launched by the SQI in November 2024. Developers had until January 30 to submit their plans for the building.

The former Institut des Sourdes-Muettes, built in 1864, used to be a hospital for the hearing and visually impaired. It takes up an entire city block.

Quebec bought the Greystone building in 1979 for health network employees before it was abandoned years later.