Planners decline Adelaide W. tower proposal

By Kimberly Spice –

Toronto’s community planning office sent a scathing report to community council recommending they refuse the current development proposal for 290 Adelaide St. W.

The proposal, as described in the planning office report dated July 20, far exceeds high-rise development plans for the area and promotes 86 commercial parking spaces, which will enhance commuter traffic in the area.

The development consists of a 122.4 metre tower, which would be 87.4 metres above the height allowed by city guidelines. If approved it will set a precedent for other future proposals.

Tall buildings are being developed on the south side of Adelaide but the acceptance of those high-rises does not give a green light for the north side to grow in the same manner.

“These developments were not intended to become precedents for tall building development beyond the block, or north of Adelaide St.,” the report clearly points out.

Additionally the site will contain five levels of above-grade commercial parking.

The report states, “[The proposal] promotes the use of private automobiles over transit and gives priority to commuter and all-day parking in the Downtown contrary to the objectives of the official plan.”

Many other problems cited in the report include the lack of outdoor public space and inadequate bicycle parking. Also, building setbacks from surrounding property lines are not being followed, and the number of residential parking spaces does not meet city standards.

The entire report can be read at http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2010/te/bgrd/backgroundfile-32451.pdf.