A riveting, white steel 10-storey condominium designed by architect Will Alsop (of OCAD’s cube fame) for a site at the corner of Yonge Street and Strathgowan Avenue has resulted in local residents banding together to form a new association in opposition to the plan.

“We’re not against development or some revised version of this proposal,” said Belinda Karsen, who founded the Uptown Yonge Neighbourhood Alliance (UYNA). “We are against this application as it stands today because of height and density issues.” Although the building would stand out in stark contrast to the surrounding area, Karsen says the aesthetics are only a secondary concern. “Most people recognize it is not in keeping with the character of the area,” she said.

Alsop, who is working with local firm Quadrangle Architects on the project, agreed. But added that this particular strip of Yonge Street would benefit from the facelift.

“This is about change, this particular section of Yonge Street is really not very good,” said Alsop. “This development will add value to their properties and bring something decent and mixed, between old and young, singles and families and retired people.… And, I think it is beautiful.” Alsop said the building also addresses some things lacking in the neighbourhood, including providing additional parking as well as proper sidewalks.

Karsen’s group, which came out in droves to a recent community consultation meeting at John Fisher Public School, has distributed approximately 200 lawn signs to local homeowners to protest the plan. In addition, the group has launched an online petition at Change.org, which had 270 names at press time.

Representatives from UYNA are currently on a working group organized by Coun. Jaye Robinson and City of Toronto, City Planning staff to come up with recommendations for revisions to the current plan.