Future Of Essex House Property In West Orange Is Still Unwritten, Town Officials Say

The Essex House property isn’t currently being demolished, despite what residents may have heard on social media, West Orange officials say.

By Eric Kiefer, Patch Staff

Jun 2, 2026 1:25 pm EDT

Town officials in West Orange issued a statement about the Essex House property at 525 Northfield Avenue on June 1, 2026. (Photo courtesy of Joseph Fagan/Township of West Orange)

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The Essex House property isn’t currently being demolished, despite what residents may have heard on social media, West Orange officials say.

The township issued a news release on Monday about the future of the Essex House property at 525 Northfield Avenue.

“Township officials would like to clarify that no demolition permit has been issued for the building,” the news release stated. “At this time, the only permit that has been approved is for the removal of an underground storage tank. Demolition permits are reviewed by the construction official in conjunction with the zoning official for approval.”

The Essex House application is scheduled to be heard by the West Orange Planning Board on June 10.

Township officials released some additional details about recent fire department activity on the premises:

“The property owners have generously made the building available to the West Orange Fire Department for firefighter training exercises. This activity may have led some residents to believe demolition had already been approved. However, the building is only being used to provide firefighters with valuable hands-on training in a real-world environment. By allowing the fire department to utilize the structure, the property owners have helped create a unique training opportunity while minimizing costs to taxpayers. The fire department's administration and training division coordinated the exercise to enhance firefighter preparedness and strengthen public safety. Their efforts ensured that firefighters received meaningful practical experience while maximizing the efficient use of departmental resources.”

“The township extends its appreciation to the Essex House property owners for their consideration and support in providing this unique training opportunity for the West Orange Fire Department and the residents it serves,” officials added.

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