KITCHENER — On June 26, 2023, the Kitchener City Council approved a large-scale mixed-use redevelopment project for the former Schneiders site, located at 321-325 Courtland Avenue East, along with adjacent parcels at 230 & 240 Palmer Avenue and 30 Vernon Avenue.
Led by 321 Courtland Avenue Developments Inc., a subsidiary of Auburn Developments, this transformative project aims to revitalize the Mill-Courtland neighbourhood and integrate seamlessly with the surrounding community.
Spanning 10.36 hectares, the redevelopment area boasts approximately 343 metres of frontage on Courtland Avenue and 241 metres on Borden Avenue.
Bounded by Stirling Avenue South to the west, Courtland Avenue to the north, Borden Avenue to the east, and a CNR rail line to the south, the site comprises six separate parcels, including the former Schneiders factory complex and adjacent properties on Palmer and Vernon streets.
The ambitious redevelopment plan encompasses 13 towers, ranging from five to 38 storeys, housing a mix of residential units, retail spaces, offices, and restaurants.
With a nod to the site’s history, three existing buildings will be repurposed for commercial and employment uses, preserving a semblance of the area’s industrial heritage.
A significant aspect of the project is the provision of rental housing, addressing the growing demand in the region.
Over the next 12 years, Auburn Developments plans to construct 3,345 rental units, offering diverse options including one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations.
Notably, the original proposal included 135 affordable housing units, priced 20 percent below market average.
Responding to community needs, the developer secured approval for an additional ten affordable units during the council meeting.
In addition to residential and commercial spaces, the redevelopment emphasizes sustainability and connectivity.
Plans include the establishment of two parks, a multi-use trail, and a stacked townhouse block, promoting green spaces and recreational opportunities.
With 3,876 parking spaces planned, 20 percent of which will be designated for electric vehicles, the development aims to accommodate both vehicular and sustainable transportation needs.
Moreover, the site’s proximity to the Mill and Borden ION LRT stations ensures convenient access to public transit for residents and visitors alike.
The developer received approvals for an Official Plan Amendment, Draft Plan of Subdivision, and Zoning By-law Amendment for the site.
The Official Plan Amendment has changed the designation of the site from “General Industrial” to accommodate mixed-use, employment, residential, and park designations, incorporating site-specific policies to align with the development plan.
Examples of the redesignation of the subject lands include but are not limited to a “Mixed-Use Corridor” designation with a new special policy (“9a”) that defines the site as a mixed employment and commercial area.
Additionally, a “High Density Multiple Residential” designation with a new special policy (“9d”) and a “Medium Density Multiple Residential” with a new special policy (“9e”) has been approved, permitting medium to high-density development on the site.
The Draft Plan of Subdivision introduces a new east-west public street within the site, facilitating connections to extensions of Kent Avenue and Palmer Avenue.
The approved plan will effectively divide the area into six development blocks designated for residential, nonresidential, and public park purposes.
Furthermore, the Zoning By-law Amendment has rezoned the six development blocks from the “General Industrial (M2) Zone” to mixed-use, residential, and park zones in accordance with the revised Official Plan designation.
Examples of the zone changes include but are not limited to a Medium Intensity Mixed Use Corridor Zone (MU-2) with area-specific Special Regulation Provisions (“C” R”), a Residential Nine Zone (R-9) with an area-specific Special Regulation Provisions (“E” R”), and a Residential Eight Zone (R-9) with area-specific Special Regulation Provision (“F” R”).
The zoning change will align the land use regulations with the intended development vision.
The project underscores Auburn Developments’ commitment to urban renewal and community enhancement.
By revitalizing the former Schneiders site, the redevelopment aims to contribute to Kitchener’s economic growth, housing affordability, and sustainable development goals.
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