KITCHENER — A proposal has been submitted for the redevelopment of 359 Highland Road West, near the intersection with Lawrence Avenue.
The project involves constructing a 3-storey multiple dwelling building with ten rental units, replacing a previously demolished single detached dwelling.
The development aligns with the City’s 2014 Official Plan, which designates the property as part of an ‘Urban Corridor’ and ‘Mixed Use.’
The subject property is located in the St. Mary’s neighbourhood, characterized by a mix of commercial and residential uses.
It is designated as ‘Urban Corridor’ on Map 2 – Urban Structure and ‘Mixed Use’ on Map 3 – Land Use in the City’s Official Plan.
The property is currently zoned ‘Mixed Use Two Zone (MIX-2) with Site-Specific Provision (62)’ under Zoning By-law 2019-051.
The proposal necessitates a minor variance application, A2024-056, which seeks relief from the parking requirements outlined in Zoning By-law 2019-051.
While the existing regulation requires a minimum of 9 parking spaces (0.9 per dwelling unit), the application requests a reduction to 5 parking spaces (0.5 per dwelling unit).
The reduction is justified by the site’s proximity to public transit, being approximately 20 metres from a Grand River Transit bus stop (Route 204).
Furthermore, the proposal includes provisions for 8 Class A and 2 Class B bicycle parking spaces to encourage active transportation.
The Committee of Adjustments will be responsible for deciding on this development proposal.
The committee’s decision will determine whether the minor variance to reduce the parking requirement will be granted, allowing the project to proceed as planned.
The minor variance requested aligns with the ‘Mixed Use’ designation in the Official Plan and the ‘Mixed Use Two Zone (MIX-2) with Site-Specific Provision (62)’ zoning.
However, it seeks to address the practical aspects of vehicle storage and transportation needs, considering the urban context and available public transit options.
The proposed development at 359 Highland Road West aims to enhance urban intensification within the St. Mary’s neighbourhood.
By addressing parking requirements through a minor variance and emphasizing proximity to transit and bicycle parking, the project aligns with broader urban planning goals.
This redevelopment not only replaces a demolished dwelling but also contributes to the mixed-use character and vibrancy of the Urban Corridor.
The Committee of Adjustments’ upcoming decision will be crucial in determining the project’s future.
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