GUELPH — A proposed land development project aims to introduce a blend of housing options in Guelph, Ontario. The development plans, subject to Official Plan amendment and Zoning By-law amendment applications, highlight a strategic approach to cater to diverse residential needs.
The proposal, centred around 1166-1204 Gordon Street, Guelph, targets creating a vibrant community with a mix of apartments and street townhouses.
The project’s focal point lies in balancing high-density living with the comfort of traditional townhouse settings.
According to the outlined plans, two six-storey apartment buildings are slated for construction on the western side of the subject lands, facing Gordon Street.
These buildings are anticipated to house 122 units collectively, featuring a variety of layouts ranging from one-bedroom to four-bedroom units.
These units will feature a mix of layouts, including 33 one-bedroom units, 55 two-bedroom units, 25 three-bedroom units, and nine four-bedroom units, catering to individuals, families, and larger households.
A segment of the ground-floor units facing Gordon Street will span two storeys to accommodate the larger four-bedroom units.
Parking provisions include a rear surface parking lot and underground parking within the apartments’ combined basement.
Additionally, the proposal includes the development of three blocks of street townhouses on the eastern end of the subject lands, fronting onto Landsdown Drive.
These townhouses, spanning three storeys, are envisioned as a transitional element, bridging the existing low-density residential area with the proposed high-density apartments.
The townhouses will comprise 21 units, each featuring an attached garage and driveway.
Key zoning amendments are integral to realizing this development vision. The proposed zoning changes delineate the apartments to be zoned as “Specialized High-Density Apartment (R.4B-XX)” and the townhouses as “Specialized On-Street Townhouse (R.3B-XX).”
These amendments seek to accommodate specific site requirements, such as recognizing Gordon Street as the front lot line, adjusting density and floor space index, and permitting deviations in amenity space and buffer strip dimensions.
The subject lands, currently zoned as “Residential Single Detached (R.1B),” necessitate zoning amendments to enable multiple dwellings, as they are not permitted to be used in the existing zone.
The proposed development aligns with the City of Guelph’s comprehensive Zoning By-law (2023)-20790, which zones the subject lands as Medium Density Residential (RM.5(PA)(H13)).
This zoning classification allows for apartment buildings and on-street townhouses with specific height and density regulations.
To facilitate the proposed development, a Zoning By-law amendment will be essential to remove the Holding Provision (H13) and enact site-specific exceptions for apartments and street townhouses.
In summary, the proposed development initiative in Guelph aims to offer a diverse range of housing options, blending high-density apartment living with the comfort and charm of street townhouses.
The project seeks to contribute to the city’s evolving residential landscape through strategic zoning amendments and careful planning while adhering to regulatory guidelines and community needs.
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