Photo by Brent Warren.

The developer behind a plan to demolish the Greater Columbus Antique Mall building is coming back to the Brewery District Commission this week with a new idea for the site.

The latest plan calls for moving the historic, front portion of the building to a grass-covered lot about 500 feet to the south. The two-story cinderblock addition that extends to the rear of the property would then be demolished, creating an “opportunity for redevelopment of the site with an appropriate commercial use,” according to a letter submitted to the city in advance of Thursday’s meeting.

The letter, from attorney Michael T. Shannon, explained that the historic building would be moved to 1082 S. Front St. That would put it right next to a house (at 1076 S. Front St.) which was itself moved about half a mile south to make room for the expansion of the Grange Insurance headquarters.

Local developer Schiff Properties first proposed tearing down the antique mall building, at 1045 S. High St., in April. The project has returned several times to the commission since then, and commissioners have toured the building to get a sense for its condition.

Historic preservationists have opposed the demolition, arguing that the building, while in need of repair, has been relatively well-preserved. The antique mall has operated out of the building for nearly 40 years and remains open for business seven days a week.

The latest proposal is scheduled for a conceptual review, meaning no vote will be taken. Additional information about the commercial development was not included in the submittal, although each of the previous proposals from Schiff Properties called for constructing a drive-thru restaurant on the site.

Update: Schiff Properties Withdraws Plan to Move Antique Mall Building

Related: Apartments Proposed for CD 102.5 Property in Brewery District

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