An apartment building in downtown Brandon, Manitoba, that was damaged in a massive fire is set to reopen in January.

Massey Manor, which is managed by community groups, suffered extensive fire and smoke damage in May 2018, forcing 200 people out.

The fire is believed to have started in grass behind Christie's Office Supply before it spread to that building. Dry conditions and heavy winds spread the fire to surrounding buildings, including Massey Manor, quickly. Firefighters called in reinforcements from outside Brandon, including crews from CFB Shilo, to fight the flames that affected several buildings.

The Community Health and Housing Association says $8 million in renovations are almost done. "Things are really, really looking good in the place," Glen Kruck, regional manager for the Community Health and Housing Association tells the Brandon Sun.

Massey Manor is an affordable housing apartment building. The loss of its apartments was devastating for the Westman community.

The massive fire completely destroyed three buildings and caused an estimated $25 million in damages.