A new conference center in Fort-Coulonge

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André Macron
(tr. L. T.)

FORT-COULONGE – Construction of a new and privately owned conference centre resumed on the Spruceholme Inn’s grounds, 204 Principale, March 18.

André Macron
(tr. L. T.)

FORT-COULONGE – Construction of a new and privately owned conference centre resumed on the Spruceholme Inn’s grounds, 204 Principale, March 18.
Over a year ago, Jane Pitfield, great-great grand-daughter of pioneer George Bryson returned to her ancestral home to open a restaurant, Le Bistro du bucheron, and it has become well-known in the area.  Her next project is a Victorian conference     centre on the grounds of Spruceholme, 84 feet by 55 feet, with a capacity of 400 persons.  The Spruceholme complex also includes a retirement residence, the admirably converted Lariviere heritage house.
Pitfield said the new building will fill the need for a large hall in town for special events, from       commercial to political and social purposes. Its separate kitchen will require hiring chefs and servers, although Pitfield already employs 16 people in the inn and bistro. Spruceholme Inn has six rooms available, plus extra space.
The new facility will be operational by the beginning of June and will complement the inn, bistro and seniors’ residence, added Pitfield. She is determined to help make Pontiac more prosperous and said the new conference centre will facilitate creating new events, such as festivals, shows, or street activities, as well as traditional weddings and receptions.
“With the bistro I could accommodate up to 110 people,” added Pitfield; “with this new facility we can receive even more guests, all at a reasonable cost.”
The owner has more projects in mind, encouraged by the support she has received from the community. The bistro is now open Friday through Sunday for meals, and by summer will be open five days a week, starting Wednesdays. One of her favourite projects to come is a tennis court – with Fort Coulonge’s first tennis club.