Opposition to Grenadier Square Development of 2 Towers

We, the undersigned, residents of the City of Toronto wish to bring to your attention the proposed redevelopment of the Grenadier Square, specifically 51-65 Quebec Avenue and 52-66 High Park Avenue. A rezoning application was submitted on January 7, 2013 in the attempt to justify the construction of two 31-storey residential buildings. This would require amendments to Zoning By-law 438-86 and Site Specific By-law 22621 -- which currently permits a building height of up to 10 metres.

The developer’s proposed height of the two 31-storey buildings, 100m (10 times the permitted height), is inappropriate for the community. It would be irresponsible of the City of Toronto to allow for such development. There is a reason why these By-laws exist and they should be honoured and upheld in the interest of the people.

To summarize our concerns with the height and proximity of the proposed development:

- The size is not suitable for the neighbourhood. It would tower over all adjacent buildings.

- The design and architecture of the buildings would change the character of the neighbourhood.

- It will impede the sunlight received by surrounding buildings; most noticeably 70 High Park Avenue and 50 Quebec Avenue.

- The influx of population that the 610 units would attract is overbearing on the community’s infrastructure; including but not limited to:
a) saturation of street traffic
b) lack of school accommodations for children
c) overburdening the Bloor-Danforth subway line at High Park station;

- Residents of neighbouring buildings would forfeit their scenic views; as a result, some residents may incur a decrease in their property value.

We welcome development to the area that is enriching and increases housing, but within the limits of the current By-law while preserving the character of the neighbourhood.