Preston Legion moving to new building on same property

The Preston Legion is moving to a new location but, as CTV’s Karis Mapp explains, it’s not far from its current address.

The Preston Legion is getting a new hall, but loyal patrons won’t have to change their routines to get to the new space.

The building in Cambridge has been on Westminster Drive since 1947 after it was transported there from Port Albert.

“It was purchased there, disassembled, brought here, reassembled and it’s been the Preston Legion ever since,” Joe Gowing, Preston Legion president, said.

The years have taken a toll on the building’s infrastructure and accessibility concerns are growing.

“Right now, if anybody has accessibility issues, they have to go outside into the elements and come upstairs,” Gowing said.

Roughly two years ago, the Legion started to explore what it would take to renovate the current space, however the addition of an elevator and other improvements proved to be too costly.

After consulting with members, the plan changed and a new Legion building will be constructed on the same property in what is currently the parking lot.

“The layout of it is going to be washrooms, bar and kitchen in the centre so that it can feed and service both sides – lounge and hall,” Gowing said.

Development renderings show a one-story replacement.

“I think that’s a great idea,” said Legion member Charles Douglas. “This building was put here years ago, and it’s gotten to the point where it’s too old to fix.”

Patrick O’Brien agreed. He is a member and veteran who served from 1957-1969.

“It’s about time! I was born and raised here in Cambridge. This building has been here since then and I’m an old guy,” he said.

The City of Cambridge is putting $4 million towards the project but Legion volunteers plan to hold fundraisers to help with the overall cost.

Cambridge has three legions, with other locations in Hespeler and Galt. Once construction is complete, Gowing says the trio will remain independent.

“Neither one has come to talk to us about that. So, we are moving with it as the Preston Legion,” he said.

Although staff said they’re going to miss the current Legion, they’re looking forward to the new spot.

“I’m in no hurry to have this beautiful building come down,” said Sandy Welsh, the Legion’s bar manager. “But I cannot wait to give the community a brand-new kitchen, a brand-new bar. It’s just going to be beautiful.”

Gowing said their team is working to include the current Legion’s history in the new location.

“It’s a nostalgic building. We really want to make sure people know where we came from.”

Construction is estimated to begin in late spring or early summer of 2026. The project is set to be completed by 2027.