The restoration of Leamington's Big Tomato will start this summer.
Municipal councillors approved plans to restore the iconic landmark to its former glory on Tuesday night.
For over 60 years, the Big Tomato has stood on Talbot Street West. It closed in 2019 and should reopen for Leamington's 150th anniversary celebrations.
"The Big Tomato is not just an architectural piece. It's a cherished emblem of Leamington's heritage and community identity," said Mayor Hilda MacDonald. "This restoration is a step toward preserving our history while adapting it to serve our current and future generations."
The restoration will be extensive. A report to councillors detailed how it will need new foam insulation, waterproofing, new floors, wiring, ventilation, and lights. Additionally, surrounding shrubs will be removed to make way for enhanced landscaping.
The report said the cost would be around $50,000.
The digital age has rendered its need as a tourism booth obsolete. The municipality plans to repurpose it for community events, including beverage sales during the Mill Street Market.
The structure, a joint project between Leamington and the HJ Heinz Company of Canada, opened in 1961.
