Minor Variance approval in Cambridge for six new residential lots 

CAMBRIDGE — 2856336 Ontario Inc.’s proposal to subdivide four existing lots into six smaller lots at 359 and 381 Middle Street and 364 and 368 Melrose Street in Cambridge has been approved following an appeal. 

The decision comes despite the initial refusal from the Cambridge Committee of Adjustment (COA) due to the proposed lot areas falling short of the minimum size mandated by the City’s zoning by-law. 

The property at 359 Middle Street measures 483.6 square metres and has a frontage of 18.34 metres. 

Similarly, 381 Middle Street, which is slightly larger at 486.5 square metres, also boasts a frontage of 18.34 metres and includes an existing single-family home. 

The properties at 364 and 368 Melrose Street are each just over 376 square metres with a frontage of 18.22 metres. 

The developers’ approved plan creates six new lots from these four existing parcels. For 359 and 381 Middle Street, the new lot areas will be 322.3 square metres and 248.9 square metres, respectively. 

For 364 and 368 Melrose Street, parts of these properties will be merged to form a new lot with an area of 251.7 square metres, while the retained portions will constitute a lot of 251.1 square meters. 

Importantly, the frontage of each new lot complies with the by-law requirements. 

The properties are situated in an area zoned “R5,” which allows for single-family detached dwellings consistent with the neighbourhood’s low-density residential character. 

The properties fall within the “Low/Medium Density Residential” and “Built-Up Area” designations of the City’s Official Plan, which supports urban residential development. 

Despite the zoning by-law compliance regarding frontage and other development parameters, the COA initially refused the application on August 23, 2023, because the proposed lot areas needed to meet the minimum size requirement. 

In response, the developer appealed to the Ontario Land Tribunal on September 26, 2023. 

The City of Cambridge subsequently decided not to participate in the appeal process, as communicated to the Tribunal on October 16, 2023. 

In its assessment, the Ontario Land Tribunal approved the proposed variances, finding them suitable for the development of the subject properties. 

While the lot areas are smaller than required, all other zoning by-law criteria—such as frontage, setbacks, lot coverage, and parking—are satisfied. 

The Tribunal concluded that the reduction in lot size is minor and reasonable under the circumstances. 

The new lots will maintain their frontage in accordance with the by-law, preserving the neighbourhood’s streetscape. 

Additionally, each new home will include a parking space, fulfilling the by-law’s requirement of one parking space per four bedrooms. 

In their decision, the Tribunal emphasized that the variances would not detract from the neighbourhood’s character. 

The reduced lot sizes will not be perceptible from the street, ensuring the new development blends seamlessly with the existing environment. 

Furthermore, the proposal aligns with the City’s planning objectives for low to medium-density and built-up areas, supporting a practical and efficient use of urban space. 

In summary, the Tribunal’s approval recognizes that the requested variances are appropriate and in line with the City’s overall development goals. 

This decision facilitates the creation of functional and compliant lots, promoting efficient land use while preserving the aesthetic and character of the neighbourhood.