Whitehorse firm converts vacant building into mall

A multi-million dollar renovation is underway at the old Canadian Tire building in Whitehorse.

The entire building is being gutted and refurbished as the new owners, Northern Vision Development, are turning it into an indoor mall.

"The front areaabout two thirds of the building, maybe a little morewe're converting into what will be a mall that's accessible with both interior and exterior access points," said Rich Thompson, CEO of Northern Vision.

"You would have an atrium area with some kiosks, fast food vendors and retailers and obviously a little more attractive in the winter months when you can come in and access the retailers from an interior space."

Thompson won't name any of the tenants but said about 35 per cent of the building is leased.

It will also be getting a new name.

"The name former Canadian Tire doesn't do much for us so we'll be renaming it something along the lines of Northern Vision Place or Northern Vision Centre," said Thompson.

Thompson said he expects the mall will be open for business by fall.