New Tecumseth council has approved a land swap with the Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB), which means a new Banting Memorial High School will be built in Alliston.
"This community has been promised a replacement for Banting High School for many years," said New Tecumseth Mayor Richard Norcross. "It is exciting that the town could reach an agreement that sees a new high school for the community in a location that respects and can enhance the important legacy of Sir Frederick Banting and his historic homestead."
Under the terms of the deal, the SCDSB will acquire approximately 25 acres of the Banting Homestead and Heritage Park property, while New Tecumseth will get the existing Banting school site and G.A Wright Field.
The new $41.4 million school will have room for more than 1,200 students and a child care centre.
"The Board of Trustees is exceptionally pleased with the decision by town council to proceed with the land exchange, said Dana Powell, chairperson of the SCDSB. "Building on the Banting Homestead and Heritage property presents unique opportunities to highlight the historical significance of the site and provide future generations of students with a modern learning environment where they can learn to innovate and pursue their goals."
The board says a replacement school is necessary due to the condition of the existing building and the continued growth within the municipality.
Capital funding for a new school was approved by the Ontario government in November 2021.
There is no timeline for the start of construction.
