Written By Jan Sims
MIDDLESEX CENTRE - Plans for a large-scale development along Glendon Dr. in Middlesex Centre went before municipal council at its July 16th meeting, with barely a ripple from the community.
Only one written submission to council was attached to the agenda, from a community member who was concerned about the scale of the Sifton project and its compatibility in the area. However, Ward 4 Councillor Sue Cates, who represents the Komoka-Kilworth area said during council discussions: “We’re at the start of this massive project and we need to ensure that we get this right”.
Municipal planners estimate there could be upwards of 975 housing units, including a mixture of single-family homes, townhouses and apartments. One of the apartment buildings could be as tall as 36 meters or just under 120 feet. There would also be a commercial component, and possibly a nursing home or retirement residence contained in one of the blocks.
The development would be located east of the Komoka Wellness Centre and the neighbouring shopping plaza. It’s in the early stages of the bylaw approval process, with the planning department report going to council for information only at the July 16th council meeting.
Councillor Cates said she was pleased to read in the report that trails are planned within the development, and she acknowledged overall housing needs. “We do need the diversity in housing types; affordability, attainability and different types for various residents and age groups within our community,” said Cates. But she also raised a number of cautionary points. “This plan presents some hefty numbers and we need to ensure we consider all the factors involved; service capacity, school capacity, road plans, parking and a positive layout for our community,” said Cates.
In terms of affordability, Ward 3 Councillor Hugh Aerts admitted it would be a “hard ask” at this point in time to discuss house prices, but went on to say: “Affordable to who? An affordability house in one area might be $500,00 and, in another area, it might be a million dollars. I really hope we can design something where people on the lower scale of income have a fighting chance.”
Manager of Planning and Development, Stephanie Bergman said it’s expected a report to council on the next steps on the process could come this fall. As to the larger timetable: “In terms of shovels in the ground a year or two is reasonable,” said Bergman.
