LONDON — The east end is poised for a significant transformation with the proposed redevelopment of the former McCormick candy factory site at 1156 Dundas Street.
The plan, led by Extendicare, a prominent nursing home provider, aims to repurpose the long-vacant industrial property into a vibrant mixed-use community.
The proposed development seeks to blend residential, commercial, and recreational uses while preserving the area’s historical heritage.
The proposed Draft Plan of Subdivision outlines the creation of several new blocks, including one medium-density residential/commercial block, three medium-density residential blocks, one park block, one future roadblock, and one road reserve block.
The blocks will be serviced by an extension of Gleeson Street, enhancing accessibility and connectivity within the site.
The site is planned to be developed into a three-storey, 192-bed long-term care home on a 1.5-hectare portion of the site.
The facility will replace an older Extendicare home in downtown London and feature 79 parking spaces and 27 bicycle spots.
The site plan includes an entrance from Ashland Avenue and parking access from McCormick Boulevard.
The addition aligns with the city’s goal of providing essential services to the community while revitalizing unused industrial land.
The total area of the proposed redevelopment site is 5 hectares (12 acres), with a frontage of 178 metres on Dundas Street and a depth of 318 metres.
The site, currently vacant, was previously used for industrial purposes.
The former factory site, designated under Part of the Ontario Heritage Act, has been unused since the McCormick facility closed in 2008.
The redevelopment plan leverages the site’s historical significance while promoting modern urban growth.
Several zoning changes are under consideration to support the new mixed-use community and facilitate the proposed development.
The current zoning permits a variety of commercial uses.
The proposed zone change will allow for a mix of medium-density residential and commercial development, creating an integrated space for both housing and business.
A portion of the development allows for residential buildings up to 12 metres high.
One of the proposed amendments would increase the height limit to 13.5 metres, enabling taller residential structures.
Another portion of the site permits buildings up to 15 metres in height and a density of 125 units per hectare.
A proposed change for this portion of the site will increase the allowable height to 21 metres and the density to 150 units per hectare, supporting a higher-density residential development.
Currently zoned for single detached homes, one of the blocks will be rezoned to permit street townhouse dwellings, promoting more compact and diverse housing options.
Also, a portion of the site is designated as Open Space (OS1), ensuring the area is reserved for recreational and green spaces, providing essential outdoor areas for the community.
In addition to zoning changes, there are proposed amendments to the London Plan and the McCormick Area Secondary Plan to support the new development framework.
An appeal regarding the proposed development is currently before the Ontario Land Tribunal, highlighting ongoing community engagement and regulatory scrutiny.
If approved, the redevelopment project promises to bring new life to a historic site and set a precedent for future urban revitalization efforts in London.
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