A local association has raised concerns over three proposed developments, ranging in height from three to 24 storeys, that potentially could dwarf neighbouring homes located at Westwood Lane and Yonge Street.
On the southwest corner of the intersection, Great Lands (Westwood) Inc. has proposed a 24-storey tower, including 257 apartment units and 333 parking spaces. To its south, developers Angelo, Louise and Josephine Cimetta have proposed another 24-storey tower as well as a 19-storey building, totalling 500 residential apartments and 635 parking spots at the intersection.
Abutting family homes west of the intersection and along Sunnywood Crescent, the Cimettas also have proposed a 10-storey retirement residence and a seniors’ apartment building of three to five storeys in height.
The Town of Richmond Hill official plan (2010) stipulates a maximum height of 15 storeys along that stretch of Yonge and four storeys at its western boundary. But, according to Town of Richmond Hill Planning and Regulatory staff, the developers have appealed the policy. By default, the policy from 1982 is in effect, with no maximum height stipulation.
Nonetheless, the proposals still exceed new and old density limits. Backed by an estimated 600 signatures from displeased neighbours, Colin Dungey, chair of the South Richvale Ratepayers Association, said the transition between high-rise and family homes would be too abrupt if the plan went ahead though he noted that he would be amiable to the proposals if they respected the town’s current official plan.
“I don’t see developers as a big, bad entity,” said Dungey. “Development is necessary, but it’s got to be good development.”The local town councillor, Nick Papa, was less optimistic. He said the developers have demonstrated a lack of goodwill by appealing the town’s plan.
“It seems that the developers are telling us what to do. If they don’t like [a town resolution], they’ll bring it to the Ontario Municipal Board and hope they get whatever they ask for,” he said. “I think that we, the council, should be more unified together to fight this.”
