Scarborough
could soon get a lot taller, thanks to a newly proposed development that would
reach 52 storeys in height.
Developer
Tridel and non-profit disability services provider Community Living Toronto
(CLTO) announced a partnership on Monday to bring a five-tower mixed-use
community to 1710-1712 Ellesmere Road, the former Harold R. Lawson School
located just east of McCowan Road.
The towers,
reaching 28 to 52 storeys in height, will house approximately 2,200 residential
units, 280 of which will be rentals. The units will include a mix of
market-rate condos and independent and supported living units, with people with
intellectual disabilities who are serviced by CLTO having an opportunity to live
in the community.
“Developing
vibrant neighbourhoods where people with intellectual disabilities are included
from the beginning, is more important than ever,” says Brad Saunders, CEO of
CLTO. “The announcement today of our partnership is an example of how Community
Living Toronto continues to create unique, supportive spaces for people with an
intellectual disability and their families.”
CLTO
currently owns the Scarborough site, with one of the five proposed buildings
set to be a new “bespoke” home for the non-profit. A planning backgrounder
describes the future building as a “shining example of integrating rental,
program, and community space.” It will feature “engaging and welcoming indoor
and outdoor shared areas to foster social inclusion, including accessibility features
that go beyond AODA requirements.”
CLTO is
planning to apply for the Open-Door Affordable Housing Program to waive
development charges for all affordable units.
In addition
to the residential aspects, the development will include retail and commercial
space, a new public park, and privately owned public spaces. There will also be
a focus on sustainability, including the use of energy efficient features.
“Tridel is
proud to partner with Community Living Toronto,” said Jim Ritchie, President of
Tridel. “This proposed redevelopment assists in addressing the housing needs in
the Greater Toronto Area. We are excited to bring our expertise in delivering
quality homes and to support the build of an innovative and inclusive community
that is welcoming to all.”
Although a
development application has not yet been field with the City of Toronto, in
December 2021, the City identified the Harold R. Lawson School, built in 1963,
as a property to be assessed for a heritage designation. To date, it has not
received any heritage designation.
Source
By: STOREYS