BRANTFORD — In a significant move towards revitalizing its downtown core, Brantford City Council has approved a transformative $1.5 billion mixed-use development for the 12-acre site at 50 Market Street South.
The project, led by Canadian Properties Group (CPG), will bring new life into the area, blending residential, commercial, and institutional spaces in a comprehensive redevelopment known as Brantford Commons.
The approved redevelopment will see the existing commercial plaza, currently home to popular retailers like FreshCo, The Beer Store, LCBO, and Boston Pizza, reimagined into a vibrant community hub.
The plan envisions the construction of approximately 2,500 residential units.
The units will be distributed across various building types and heights, including townhouses and high-rise towers ranging from 6 to 25 storeys.
Specifically, the development will feature 1,763 market housing units, 290 student housing units, and 254 rental housing units.
The redevelopment will be executed in four phases over an estimated period of seven years, with construction of Phase 1 anticipated to begin in 2025.
The initial phase will focus on building student housing and rental apartments, ensuring that the community can continue to access essential services such as the existing grocery store.
The grocery store will remain operational until its relocation within the development.
Subsequent phases will introduce senior housing and condominiums alongside additional residential options.
In addition to the residential components, Brantford Commons will significantly expand its commercial footprint.
The project includes plans for 150,000 square feet of retail space on ground floors, designed to accommodate a variety of businesses and services.
The City Council approved several zoning by-law amendments to enable this large-scale transformation on April 30, 2024.
The amendments include increasing the building heights to allow for the construction of towers up to 25 storeys.
The existing 550 parking spaces will be increased to approximately 630, ensuring that there is adequate parking for both residents and commercial visitors.
The adjustment aligns with the approved parking ratios that support the development’s mixed-use nature.
The strategic location of the development at Market Street South and Icomm Drive offers excellent connectivity to public transportation.
The site’s proximity to key bus routes and Light Rail Transit (LRT) stations supports its designation as a Major Transit Station Area (MTSA), facilitating convenient access for both residents and visitors.
By integrating extensive commercial spaces with a variety of residential options, the project is expected to create a self-sustaining, dynamic neighbourhood.
The redevelopment will not only provide much-needed housing but also foster economic growth and enhance the overall urban experience in Downtown Brantford.
The approval of Brantford Commons marks a pivotal step in the city’s urban development strategy.
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