Concern in Bronte over 20-storey condo proposal by David Lea Oakville Beaver Staff 5 | Thursday, February 4, 2016 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Residents in Bronte are expressing concerns after a developer brought forward a proposal to build a 20-storey condominium last month. In its application, Symgine (Lake East) Inc., said the building, which would be located at East Street and Lakeshore Road West, would feature 144 units as well as 767 square metres of ground-floor commercial/retail. The facility would have 247 parking spaces, including 215 underground spaces and 32 groundlevel spaces. In a Planning Justification Report submitted to the Town, proponents of the development state the building would achieve intensification in a designated growth area. The report also noted the proposed development would reduce dependence on cars given its location within walking distance of bus service, shopping, community facilities and Oakville's waterfront and parks. The proposed height is considerably greater than the fourstorey limit currently in place at the site. This 17-storey building is located at East Street and Marine Drive, just south of Lakeshore Road West and East, where a 20-storey condo plan is being envisioned. | Oakville Beaver file photo Town staff said the municipality's bonusing policy (cases in which the Town allows a higher density in exchange for a benefit to the municipality would permit six storeys, but nothing higher. The development application has created more than a few concerns within the Bronte community. "The proposed site is on the southeast corner of Lakeshore Road and East Street. All of its neighbours will be directly affected with regards to daylight, views, privacy, noise and safety (increased traffic)," said area resident Lyndsey Thomas in an email to the Oakville Beaver. "The building will also block out the views and sun for the assistedliving wing in the seniors residence next door. In this day and age, and with the awareness of health, can this be justified?" Bronte Village Residents' Association (BVRA) President Ana Hourahine said her group is closely following and actively involved in the review process for this development. "We have received considerable feedback from residents, who are concerned about this proposed development for a variety of reasons. The BVRA understands that while development and revitalization may need to happen, our mandate is to ensure it happens in a way that protects Bronte's character, charm and waterfront while respecting the heritage of Bronte," said Hourahine. "We question whether this proposal is in keeping with those values and the general charm of the area, especially under the broader vision of the Bronte Village Growth Area Review (BVGAR)." The 20-storey development would not be the first condominium in the area. Directly to the south of the proposed site is a 17-storey facility. Hourahine argues the location of the proposed site needs to be examined closely before any development moves forward. "This particular proposed development is different than other existing high-rise buildings in the area, because it is at the heart of a `gateway' into Bronte Village," she said. "The concept of a gateway is a main component of the Town's draft directions in the BVGAR, a process which is very much still in progress." The Town held a public information meeting concerning the development at the Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre Wednesday night. The event attracted a crowd of nearly 100 people. The Town's Manager of Current Planning Charlie McConnell said the development proposal is so recent, Town staff has yet to develop a recommendation for the Planning and Development Council as to whether the development should be allowed to proceed. Skyway Jewellers The fox is well known for its cunning wit and resourceful nature. It represents a clever individual with strategic talent and sharp judgment. INJURED? I Can Help! YOU DON'T HAVE TO PAY UNLESS I GET YOU MONEY My team of experienced lawyers can help you with: · Car accidents · Slip and Falls · Disability Claims (Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, CPP) · Wrongful Dismissal OFFICES IN OAKVILLE AND TORONTO For a free consultation call: Oakville: 905.842.2022 or Toronto: 416.351.9222 email: sspadafora@slspc.ca PLATINUM 2501 Third Line (Third Line and Dundas) Oakville, Ontario · 905 827 0700 www.skywayjewellers.com Sam Spadafora Injury and Employment Law