Regent Park phase 3 approved for demolition of 654 units

Michael Schwartz –

Sections of Regent Park fronted by Gerrard St. E. and River St. will now be developed following a  community council vote on Feb. 25.

As a result of changes to previous permissions, 654 existing social housing units will be demolished (existing tenants will receive assistance during relocation), and there will be new market housing and new Toronto City Housing Corporation property for rent with each phase. There will also be new public parkland and playing fields.

Reflecting the extensive nature of the project, and despite community council’s approval, there are bound to be complications. For example, there are still residual fears that the frontage of the project will present a single solid wall. Even demolition of the heritage property at 14 Blevins Place will only be allowed if photographs, drawings and documentation relating to its interior and exterior are lodged with the city’s Heritage Preservation Services.

Councillor Pam McConnell, who was described at the end of the meeting as the midwife to the project, stated that she had received deputations relating to many matters including the provision of a mosque and a Muslim community centre. People had also conveyed their unhappiness with offers of offsite relocation when onsite rehousing was already available.

Delegated speakers themselves noted their concerns, certainly about public transportation. Waiting an hour for a bus to Finch and increased pressure on the local streetcar were the two that came to light.

One speaker looked to the future, “We must think about our children’s future after we have brought in more and more buildings.” Even the basic architecture (”glass towers all the time”) was criticized as not in keeping with the current style of the area.