CAMBRIDGE — The city is poised for a transformative development along its Hespeler Road corridor, with plans underway for a mixed-use development featuring residential towers and commercial spaces.
The proposed project, led by the developer Jangilks Inc. (Borz Farborzi), aims to revitalize the area while aligning with the city’s urban vision.
Located at 201-217 Hespeler Road, the development site spans 12.69 hectares (31.36 acres) and boasts a prime frontage of 112.5 metres along Hespeler Road.
The proposal entails the construction of a two-storey podium structure housing 321 residential units distributed across two towers standing at 13 and 17 storeys, reaching heights of 43 metres and 55 metres, respectively.
The podium will accommodate 600 square metres of commercial retail space alongside parking and service facilities.
Notably, the development sits within the Can-Amera Major Transit Station Area (MTSA), directly on the Phase 2 ION line, offering connectivity and accessibility for residents.
The sites also fall within the scope of the Hespeler Road Mixed Use Corridor Secondary Plan.
Residents will enjoy access to indoor and outdoor amenities, including a 667-square-metre indoor amenity area, a children’s play area, and expansive rooftop spaces totalling 1000 square metres.
The proposed site plan outlines a meticulously designed urban landscape featuring affordable rental units ranging from one to three bedrooms.
Parking provisions for the project include 407 spaces distributed across multiple levels, complemented by five designated commercial and 21 barrier-free parking spaces.
Additionally, 36 tandem parking spaces are available to residents of the building, which do not count toward the total parking provided.
Adjacent to the proposed development site, commuters will find convenient access to public transportation, with a bus stop for the 51-Grand River Transit (GRT) route situated at the intersection of Hespeler Road and Can Amera Parkway.
The project necessitates amendments to the city’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law to bring the vision to life.
The Official Plan amendment is requested to permit a floor space index of 3.69, a density of 270 units per hectare, and an increase in maximum total building height to 55 metres, thus accommodating the construction of 13 and 17-storey towers on the podium base.
The subject property is currently zoned as Commercial (C4). The primary purpose of the C4 zoning classification is to accommodate various commercial uses. However, residential uses are not permitted under this zoning.
The proposed zoning for the subject lands is Hespeler Road Mixed Use Medium Density (HRMUMD), as per the May 2019 Draft of the City of Cambridge Zoning By-law Review.
The proposed zoning aims to facilitate a mixed-use development that integrates residential, commercial, and institutional uses.
Additionally, site-specific provisions are requested for the development.
The provisions, similar to the Official Plan amendment, include permitting an increase in the maximum Floor Space Index (FSI) to 3.69 from the current allowance of 2.0, a density increase from 250 to 270 units per hectare, and an increase in building height from the permitted 12 storeys.
Further provisions propose a reduction in the minimum front yard setback from 15 metres to 4.5 metres, a reduction in landscaping from 30% to 25%, and a decrease in the commercial parking rate from 2.5 spaces per 100 square metres to 0.785 spaces per 100 square metres.
Notably, the proposal exceeds the minimum requirements for bicycle parking, providing 123 spaces, underscoring a commitment to promoting alternative modes of transportation.
Pending Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments, the project signifies a step toward realizing the city’s urban revitalization goals.
By introducing a vibrant mix of residential and commercial spaces, Jangilks Inc. aims to contribute to the vitality of the Hespeler Road corridor while fostering a dynamic, transit-oriented community.
As the city of Cambridge continues to evolve, developments like this serve as catalysts for growth and innovation, shaping the urban landscape for generations to come.
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