WATERLOO — To revitalize the Northdale neighbourhood, a proposed
development at 251 Albert Street requires changes to the zoning by-law.
The proposed project, led by the Rohr Chabad Centre for Jewish Life
and designed by Gluck Partnership Architects, aims to transform the site into a vibrant mixed-use space that accommodates residential dwellings, spiritual uses, and childcare facilities.
The project proposes constructing a 7-storey mixed-use building with a blend of residential units, spiritual spaces, and amenities.
The development intends to redefine the existing landscape, offering a
modern, purpose-built structure to serve as a hub for the Jewish community.
The building is designed to house 23 residential units, comprising a mix
of one-, two-, and four-bedroom apartments and a spacious nine-bedroom residence, totalling 54 bedrooms.
Additionally, the development will feature amenities such as spiritual space spanning 578 square metres and childcare facilities covering 314 square metres.
The proposal provides 26 parking spaces, including underground and surface parking options.
Moreover, the development includes accommodation for bicycle parking, with 30 spaces allocated.
Several amendments to the existing zoning by-laws have been proposed to accommodate the envisioned development.
The site falls under the Residential Northdale Twelve (RN-12) zoning designation per the City of Waterloo Official Plan.
This zoning allows for mixed-use residential buildings alongside complementary spiritual uses.
The maximum building height permitted under RN-12 is 41.5 metres, and the density limit is 600 bedrooms per hectare.
Requested provisions for the development include a request to permit a
maximum of 49% of the building to be within 5 metres of the street line, a reduction in the minimum required parking spaces from 72 to 26, and a permit for structured parking to encroach beyond the building floor area by 1.0 metre.
More exemptions have been sought, including allowing only one entrance to the building, locating childcare facilities and spiritual uses on specific storeys, and exempting ancillary uses from occupying the building frontage.
The proposal also aims to remove the Holding Provision, paving the way for further development progress.
The proposed development aligns with the broader vision for the Northdale neighbourhood, seeking to transition the area from primarily low-density student housing to a more diversified and vibrant community.
With its contemporary architectural design and focus on creating a pedestrian-friendly environment, the project aims to contribute to the neighbourhood’s evolution as a complete, transit-oriented community.
Transit accessibility near 251 Albert Street is robust. The development is
strategically located within 800 metres of major light rail transit stations
serving the University of Waterloo and Laurier-Waterloo Park.
However, before the project can proceed, the changes to the Zoning By-law are imperative.
The application is currently under review by city planners and relevant agencies.
Once approved, the development is poised to reshape the landscape of
Waterloo’s Northdale neighbourhood, offers a modern and inclusive space for residents and the community.
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