Laurentian University has finalized the sale of the iconic Bell Mansion to a local developer in Sudbury for $1.25 million. The university put the building on the market after facing financial challenges in 2021. As part of its restructuring efforts, Laurentian also sold other campus properties, including the East Residence building, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine building, and a security and maintenance building along with the adjacent parking lots.
Devla Properties Inc, led by Peter Nault, acquired the Bell Mansion and expressed a strong commitment to preserving and renovating the historic structure. The company has enlisted heritage experts from Toronto to guide the restoration process, emphasizing the building’s historical significance and its importance to the community. Devla has established a new entity, Belrock Mansion Inc., to hold ownership of the property.
Laurentian University President Lynn Wells expressed satisfaction with the sale, highlighting the university’s goal of passing on the legacy of the Bell Mansion to a new owner who values local culture and history. The mansion, constructed by lumber industry magnate William Joseph Bell in 1907, was acquired by Laurentian in 1968 and was designated for institutional purposes.
Due to structural issues, including a problematic interior staircase preventing bathroom access, the Bell Mansion has been closed for repairs since October 2023. The closure led to the Art Gallery of Sudbury shutting down temporarily.