High winds have the Municipality of Chatham-Kent worried about two dilapidated buildings in downtown Tilbury falling down and hurting someone.
The municipality said the high winds have further deteriorated the condition of the already unstable structures at 47 and 49 Queen Street and that has increased concern about a larger failure of the remaining structures.
As a result, the municipality has been forced to close the municipal sidewalk on the west side of Queen Street between 45 and 55 Queen Street until further notice.
Municipal officials said the sidewalk on the west side of Queen Street will remain closed until the demolition of 47 and 49 Queen Street is completed.
According to municipal officials, signs will be placed along Superior Street and Queen Street advising pedestrians that the sidewalk is closed.
Direction signs will also be placed at intersections directing pedestrians to use the sidewalk on the east side of Queen Street.
The municipality has stressed to the property owners and their insurance provider the importance of demolishing the shaky buildings quickly.
The demolition previously hit a snag, but is now set to move forward after a problem with the neighbouring buildings was resolved.