There was lots of discussion last night about the new condo project proposed for Port Dalhousie as over 200 people made their way to the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre for a public meeting.
There are proposed changes to the original site plan by owners Fortress Real Developments who acquired the condo property in 2015 that is 0.6-hectares bordered by Lock Street, Lakeport Road and Hogan’s Alley.
Although a site-specific plan was attached to the location originally that included a 17-storey tower with 80 units, a theatre and hotel, the development company wants to lower the storeys, increase the units and redistribute the building. The new proposal includes a 14-storey terraced building with 220 apartment units, a public courtyard, a commercial space and 258 underground parking spaces.
Last night city councillors heard from a total of 37 speakers over five hours in a discussion that had some for the condo plans and some against it. Some of the of the concerns included:
– the new plan means more units but less parking which may mean that there will be pressure to come up with additional parking in surrounding areas or even a paid parking solution
– the height and density of the building
– traffic issues
-how the development will affect the widely used surrounding public spaces including Lakeside Park
Last night’s meeting was the first part of a new two-step process for planning applications which is to gather public input. In the next part of the process, a future council meeting will include a recommendation by city staff about the application for councillors to review.
The new condos are to be named Union Waterfront Condos.
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