date posted: 2004-11-01
The long running and sometimes controversial process to re-develop the old Major Mack Hotel site is nearly over. The developer of the site is Tridel, one of the largest builders of condominium residences in Canada.
The initial concept called for a fourteen storey building on the site; however at the first public information session we held (attended by over 100 local residents), a 12 storey building was proposed. This proposal was turned down by Council and Tridel appealed that decision to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB).
Council’s response was to formulate a detailed position on this site which would protect the views of the historic steeples, shape the building to the contour of the land, provide retail space on Yonge street, and place a height limit of 6 storeys on the building.
This summer, a very unusual public process was agreed to by the Town and Tridel whereby the OMB hearing was adjourned and extensive public consultation through an independent facilitator was initiated. Through this process and eventually with the direct input of five committed citizens, a compromise was reached.
As a result of direct public input, over 30 improvements were made to the proposed condominium development. Significantly, the view of the steeples is preserved. The building will have a “heritage” design and look; the property will provide pedestrian access from Church St. to Yonge St.; the building will be stepped to provide courtyards and amenity space and the tallest portion of the residential structure will reach seven (7) storeys.
The efforts and input of the citizens who attended the facilitated sessions and especially residents who gave their time to the working groups will bring about much needed redevelopment of our downtown while respecting the surrounding buildings and streets. This degree of public input was unprecedented in Richmond Hill and I would like to thank all who participated.
Downtown Richmond Hill needs people living, working, and walking on Yonge St. to bring it back to life and to thrive. This development will contribute to that revitalization.