ADM wants historic grain elevator razed; company says it wants to build new facility; preservationists express doubts. (Archer Daniels Midland Co.)

The Great Northern Elevator, a waterfront landmark and symbol of Buffalo grain-milling prominence, is the centerpiece of a battle between local preservationists and the structure's owners.

Decatur, Ill.-based Archer Daniels Midland Co., the milling conglomerate that owns the sprawling structure, wants a demolition permit to raze the vacant 97-year-old grain elevator and replace it with a new elevator that it says will expand capacity and create jobs.

The proposal, however, has drawn fire from preservations, who say the Great Northern should be saved because of its age, history and architectural significance.

The ADM plan also is drawing skepticism from several Buffalo City Hall insiders who …