In a significant ruling, released this past Friday, the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) has upheld the Town of Aurora’s position opposing the proposed 13 storey condo development application at 1289 Wellington Street East.
Specifically, “The Tribunal finds that a 7-storey height limit on the subject property has regard for Provincial interests, is consistent with the PPS, conforms with the Growth Plan and the Region OP, and appropriately implements the in-effect Town OP.”
The OLT’s decision sets a precedent that the Town’s height restriction of 7 stories constitutes good planning, underscoring the importance of balanced urban growth and preserving the character of our community.
As I have stated before, Official Plans are the vision for appropriate growth of our community. And it is encouraging to have a decision upholding our Town’s right to determine where and how we intensify, as outlined in our Official Plan.
Per the OLT’s decision, “… intensification must be done properly and in conformity with surrounding uses, and it cannot be intensification at all costs.”
A sincere thank you is owed to the staff who diligently worked on this appeal and to the dedicated councillors who steadfastly fought for responsible development that aligns with the intent of our Official Plan.
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3 Responses
Congrats to Town staff for supporting our Town again in preserving all that makes this Town the best in Ontario to live. While residents are aware that populations increase and we must move forward, it is comforting to know that land use planning is consistent with the wishes of residents. We do not need to look like a second Toronto and putting limits on the size of homes, the density of developments and supporting utilities is necessary to preserve our unique attraction – our trail system – that is second to none.
Mr. Mayor and Councilors,
This decision is indeed significant, especially as it relates to the proposed development
at 65 St. John’s Sideroad.
Aurora Council’s decision to deny the proposed zoning changes and building height
expansion was consistent with this decision on Wellington St. East and the right one.
The St. John’s developer’s description of 45 sizeable town house units WEDGED into
a 3-acre property zoned for single house use as meeting the needs for “intensification”
is bordering on the absurd. The negative impact on wetlands preservation, traffic and pedestrian safety are all viable concerns for the town and surrounding community.
Always glad to receive your emails. Can’t Begin to imagine the traffic flow at that corner if the condo has 13 floors. It’s bad enough right now.