The owner of Inglis Jewellers has had support from all directions since a massive flood in the business Aug. 21, forcing them to re-locate for a few months to repair their store.
“There have been lots of people stopping by,” said Clark. “The community has always been supportive of us, which allows us to be supportive of the community. From well wishes and even a slap on the back, so many have offered their support.”
On the morning of Aug. 21, a tenant on the third floor in the building awoke and immediately called Clark.
The hot water heater on that level had burst.
“The damage was pretty extensive,” said Clark. “We will be out of our store for probably three months. We’re going to try our best to get back in by Christmas.”
He said damage went into the basement, however most was done to the ground floor’s flooring, ceiling and walls. The jewelry store has had to be completely gutted.
“It’s basically an empty shell. It’s pretty devastating,” he said. “The store will have to be stripped down to the studs and completely rebuilt.”
Luckily, the goldsmith shop wasn’t damaged, and it has continued to operate from its space two doors down from the jewelry shop. In the meantime, Inglis Jewellers will re-locate to 128 Esplanade – three doors down from VIA Rail – opening Sept. 13.
"We were very fortunate to find a spot so close by that could accommodate us," Clark said. “The staff and I are looking forward to getting back to business as usual and serving our customers. Our temporary location is just a short walk from Inglis Place and we’re planning a fantastic sale to welcome everyone there.”
The goldsmith will remain open on Inglis Place until the new store opens, and it will then re-locate.
The company’s other two stores – in New Glasgow and Riverview, N.B. – have remained open. Inglis Jewellers marks 25 years in business this year.
Twitter: @TDNRaissa
