KITCHENER — Real Property Management Hestia, operating as “2851519 Ontario Inc”, is proposing a transformative development at 149-151 Ontario Street North and 21 Weber Street West in Downtown Kitchener.
The proposed project aims to introduce a 27-storey mixed-use residential and office building on the southeast corner of Ontario Street North and Weber Street West.
Previously, the development site had belonged to a different developer and had been approved in principle to construct a 21-storey building overtop of the existing heritage dwelling in April 2020.
The proposed development involves the partial demolition of the existing building at 149-151 Ontario Street North, with plans to retain the front façade and a portion of the south facades.
These preserved heritage elements will be seamlessly integrated into the new 27-storey tower.
The mixed-use tower is slated to house four commercial units and a total of 230 residential units.
The proposed design aims to create a structure that complements the heritage aspects of the area while offering a modern aesthetic.
In July 2022, the new owner applied for a reduction in parking from the requirement of 1.0 spaces per dwelling unit to zero parking spaces per unit and 0.165 spaces per dwelling unit for dwelling units less than 51 square metres in area. This request received approval.
The site has recently been listed as a designated property of cultural heritage value.
The project aims to conserve the existing heritage elements by incorporating them into the new development.
However, this conservation effort necessitates the removal of certain attributes, including a brick chimney, fire-damaged roof sections, and specific portions of bay windows.
The proposed development falls within the City Centre District of the Urban Growth Centre, as designated in the Official Plan.
It aims to provide a pedestrian-oriented environment with ground-floor commercial spaces while supporting large-scale development and intensification.
The subject property at 149-151 Ontario Street North is currently zoned as ‘Office District Zone (D-4)’ under Zoning By-law 85-1, permitting the approved development and not requiring a zone change.
The development plans include 238 Class A and 2 Class B bicycle parking spaces, promoting cycling and active transportation within the urban landscape.
Parking for the building is not available on the subject lands. Parking is available at the Duke and Ontario parking garage, which is city-owned and located 100 metres from the site.
Additionally, the site is within 175 metres of the Kitchener City Hall LRT Ion Station.
While the proposal faces challenges regarding heritage conservation and parking requirements, it represents a significant step towards urban revitalization and sustainable development in Downtown Kitchener.
Pending approval, the project promises to contribute to the city’s vibrant urban fabric while respecting its historical context and promoting a transit-oriented lifestyle.
Comment Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in the comments section of this blog are solely those of the individuals who submit them and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or beliefs of the author or the website owner. We do not endorse or support any comments that may be offensive, discriminatory, or harmful in nature.
We encourage open and respectful discussions and welcome diverse perspectives. However, it is important to remember that comments are the personal opinions of the commenters and not official representations of our stance or values. We reserve the right to moderate or remove comments that violate our comment policy or that we deem inappropriate.
Please engage in discussions with courtesy and respect for one another, keeping in mind that differing opinions can coexist in a constructive manner. Thank you for being a part of our community and for helping to maintain a positive and inclusive environment.
