Item - 2020.EY12.1

Etobicoke York Community Council:

1.  Adjourned the public meeting for 4700 Keele Street - The Quad Phase 2 - Zoning By-law Amendment Application, until February 5, 2020 at 9:30 a.m.

Etobicoke York Community Council commenced a statutory public meeting on January 8, 2020, and notice was given in accordance with the Planning Act.

This application proposes to amend the Zoning By-law to permit two eight (8) storey (25.65 metre high plus mechanical penthouse) private academic accommodations with non-residential uses at grade, located in the south-east quadrant of The Pond Road and Sentinel Road, south of the York University campus.  The proposed private academic accommodations would contain approximately 444 residential units and 1,326 square metres of retail comprising 26,997 square metres of total gross floor area at 4700 Keele Street.  The proposal is the second phase of a private student housing development known as The Quad, located on the south side of The Pond Road.  

The proposed development is compatible with its surrounding context.  The proposal introduces an appropriate built form to the site with development massed to address the corner of The Pond Road and the extension of Haynes Avenue.  The proposed landscaping will provide an improved public realm on The Pond Road, the extension of Haynes Avenue and the extension of Leitch Avenue.

The proposed development is consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement (2014) and conforms with the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (2019).  The proposal conforms to the applicable Official Plan policies and complies with the York University Secondary Plan.

The proposed development also forms part of the Southwest Precinct Plan Study

Area which is currently under review.  The Southwest Precinct Plan is envisioned as a medium density urban village with a variety of housing opportunities, shops and services with a neighbourhood square to provide social gathering opportunities and an identity for the precinct.  As part of the Precinct Plan, Urban Design Guidelines and supporting strategies are required, including an Affordable Housing Strategy.  The Precinct Plan, Urban Guidelines and supporting strategies are currently being finalized.

This report reviews and recommends approval of the application to amend the Zoning By-law, with the Bills being held, subject to the finalization of the Southwest Precinct Plan, Urban Design Guidelines and supporting strategies.