Ontario’s housing landscape is under scrutiny as the province considers intervention in a significant rental project. The development, located at 1875 Steeles Ave. W. near Toronto, involves the construction of three highrise towers proposed by Tenblock. This project aims to add over 800 new rental units, including a portion designated as affordable housing.
Concerns Surrounding the Development
The proposal has faced strong opposition from Sanofi Pasteur, a pharmaceutical company located nearby. The company argues that the development poses national security risks by allowing potential oversight of its facilities, which are involved in vaccine research. Their concerns were initially voiced in 2022 and have led to calls for limitations on building heights.
- Proposed tallest tower: 39 storeys (133 meters).
- Height limit sought: 33 metres (approximately 10 storeys).
- Total rental units planned: over 800.
Government Actions and Developer Response
Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, has requested a Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO) from the housing minister to impose these height restrictions. MZOs are typically used to expedite developments but, in this case, could significantly halt the ongoing rental home project.
Tenblock’s vice-president, Stephen Job, emphasized that a reduction in height would render the project unviable, stating, “The site needs the density of market housing to help pay for and make the whole project viable.”
The Role of Experts in the Debate
In an attempt to counter security claims, Tenblock has enlisted Andrew Chester, an expert from Juno Risk Solutions. Chester asserts that taller buildings would not heighten any security risks for Sanofi. His extensive experience includes two decades as a naval intelligence officer, and he provides a compelling argument that increased height does not lead to increased oversight capabilities.
Chester notes that existing structures already allow for ample views into the Sanofi property, and additional stories would not enhance observation angles significantly. He highlights that many sensitive locations in Ottawa coexist alongside taller developments without security issues arising.
Community Concerns and Wider Implications
While the Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing is reviewing input on the MZO proposal, community members express mixed feelings. Many advocacy groups, including HousingNowTO and More Neighbours Toronto, support the need for more rental housing. Colleen Bailey from More Neighbours Toronto cautions that such an MZO could set a troubling precedent, potentially stalling future developments across the province.
First Capital REIT, another developer planning a neighboring highrise project, has also voiced concerns regarding the implications of an MZO on their proposal. Their project aims to add over 1,000 residential units, and Joshua Butcher, senior director of development, fears it may face similar restrictions.
Conclusion
The situation surrounding the potential halt of this rental development in Ontario highlights a significant intersection of housing policy and corporate concerns. As the province deliberates the requests for zoning restrictions, the community watches closely, aware that the outcome could influence the future of housing development in the region.
