KITCHENER — In a recent council meeting, VanMar Developments
secured approval for their groundbreaking proposal to construct a
striking 55-storey mixed-use highrise at 417 King Street West.
The innovative project, set to redefine Kitchener’s skyline, will feature a
6-storey podium housing vibrant commercial units on its ground floor.
Situated within the Urban Growth Centre and a mere 150 metres from
the Central Station MTSA, the proposed development aligns perfectly
with the city’s vision of intensification and urban renewal.
Formerly the site of Ziggy’s Cycle, the land is primed for transformation,
nestled amidst notable landmarks such as the Kaufman Lofts and One
Victoria.
The ambitious project encompasses a blend of one and two-bedroom
residential units alongside ground-level commercial spaces, catering to
diverse urban lifestyles.
Despite the parking requirement of the zoning being set at zero,
VanMar pledges to provide 184 parking spaces, adopting an innovative
“shared parking” approach to optimize space efficiency.
The proposal includes an impressive provision of 622 secured indoor
bicycle spaces and six outdoor visitor bicycle spaces, promoting
eco-friendly commuting alternatives and recognizing the growing
importance of sustainable transportation.
With applications for zoning and Official Plan amendments underway,
VanMar seeks significant changes to accommodate its vision, including
increased floor space ratio, flexible setbacks, and mixed-use
designation for the property.
The proposed amendments aim to revitalize the area, aligning with its
designation as an Innovation District poised for urban revitalization.
VanMar’s proactive approach extends to the zoning provisions, with
requests to replace existing regulations with tailored provisions to
facilitate the project’s realization.
The proposed amendments, including Special Regulation Provision
804R, Special Use Provision 486U, and Holding Provision 109H,
underscore VanMar’s commitment to meeting all regulatory
requirements before proceeding.
The project’s forward-looking design received commendation during its
presentation at the Planning and Strategic Initiative Committee, paving
the way for its endorsement in the subsequent Council meeting.
At the Council meeting on December 11, 2023, council members agreed
upon adding an additional amendment for the maximum building
height permissions due to safety concerns of flight paths and crane
height.
The amendment requires the building height not exceeding 535
metres above sea level to alleviate concerns.
VanMar’s visionary highrise development represents a landmark
achievement in Kitchener’s urban evolution, poised to elevate the city’s
skyline and redefine its urban identity for future generations.
To read more articles on this specific development, click here.
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