WATERLOO — A significant redevelopment proposal is underway for the northwest corner of King Street South and John Street West in Uptown Waterloo.
The project, led by Intentional Capital and Sweeney Holdings (operating as 2865161 Ontario Inc.), aims to revitalize the area by replacing existing low-rise buildings and surface parking with a modern mixed-use development.
The subject lands, totalling 0.2694 hectares, are currently occupied by several separate low-rise structures and surface parking, accessible from John Street West and Caroline Street South.
The proposed plan entails demolishing these structures to make way for a new mixed-use building featuring a podium/tower design, with commercial spaces facing King Street South and John Street West.
The envisioned development comprises a tower atop a 6-storey podium, reaching a total of 26 storeys.
The ground floor will host commercial establishments fronting King Street, John Street, and Caroline Street, while the main residential entrance will be situated on John Street.
The podium will house parking for both commercial and residential purposes, along with residential lobby access and units facing King Street.
A total of 320 units, accommodating 362 bedrooms, are proposed alongside 989.83 square metres of non-residential floor area.
The development plans include 232 parking spaces for residents and visitors, meeting the requirement of 0.6 spaces per residential unit to support these amenities.
Additionally, 15 parking spots are allocated for non-residential uses, along with 225 bicycle parking spaces and storage lockers for residents’ convenience.
The project’s proximity to the Allen Street ION Transit Station underscores its significance in the Uptown area despite the absence of a designated Major Transit Station Area in the Official Plan.
Under the City’s Zoning by-law, the site is zoned Uptown Mixed-Use-81 (U2-81) with a Holding provision.
The development plan does not request a zone change. As per the City’s Official Plan and zoning regulations, the property is designated as Commercial, specifically falling within the Uptown Mixed-Use and Uptown Complementary Transition Area.
The proposed development aligns with the plan’s stipulations, with no increase in height beyond the permitted 81 metres.
However, to proceed with construction, amendments to the Zoning By-law, along with site-specific provisions, are necessary.
The owner seeks approval for adjustments, including increased density and height allowances for certain land designations.
Proposed changes to setbacks are also outlined. The project’s design accounts for challenges posed by the irregular shape of the lot, with proposed setbacks and yard dimensions tailored to optimize land usage while maintaining urban aesthetics.
The proposed design includes adjustments to setbacks from King Street, John Street, and Caroline Street.
While a 4-metre setback is required from King Street, the plan incorporates a reduction to a 2-metre setback along John Street and Caroline Street.
Moreover, the development proposes a reduction in the required side yard setback to accommodate the irregular shape of the lot effectively.
While a 1.5-metre setback is typically mandated, the project proposes a 0-metre setback for a portion of the side yard.
Despite minor deviations from zoning requirements, the development aims to blend seamlessly with the surrounding urban landscape.
In conclusion, the proposed mixed-use development at 203 to 207 King Street South and 10 to 16 John Street West heralds a transformative initiative for Uptown Waterloo.
Pending regulatory approvals, the project promises to offer modern living spaces and vibrant commercial opportunities while enhancing the city’s urban fabric.
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