Long Time North End School Approved For Demolition

After much discussion, a long standing north end school building could soon be demolished.

The City Council approved the demolition of Ottiwell School Thursday night with an 8-3 vote.

The building is now home to Alma del Mar Charter School, which plans to replace the nearly century old school with a new larger facility.

Ward Two Councilor Steve Martins says the charter school must work with the community moving forward.

There is still a long road of permitting and planning ahead, but the school has received plenty of support from neighboring residents. They are happy with what Alma del Mar has done so far and are excited to see it grow.

Councilors at Large David Alves and Naomi Carney voted against the demolition along with Ward Three Councilor Henry Bousquet. They cited the historical importance of the school and the unique architecture as reasons to attempt renovations and repairs rather than tear it down.

The New Bedford Historical Commission has determined repair costs are unfeasible to even be an option for the city to keep the building as it is now.