The following article appeared in the September 2 edition of the Guelph Mercury:
If city council accepts staff recommendations, construction will soon start on two mixed-density subdivisions in the city’s northeast.
With more than 700 units, the two lots on either side of Victoria Road North at Woodlawn Road East would include a combination of apartments, detached and semi-detached homes.
Ward 2 Councillor Ian Findlay called the build unique.
“This development is probably the last of its size and scale in Ward 2,” he said.
The land bordering Guelph Lake Conservation Area has seen several large subdivisions built in the past few years.
The green fields were land slated for development by the city’s Places to Grow plan.
The two plans, put forward by J.E. Ingram/Artifax Construction Limited and North Estates Limited, were reviewed together because they share joint ownership.
Vicki Beard, the other Ward 2 councillor was quick to point out the construction will be spread through as many as four phases.
“The houses are not being plopped in all at once,” she said.
Beard said she’s heard no complaints and says the additional houses will extend city services to the area.
A bus route is planned for the new subdivision and a sidewalk will be completed on both sides of Victoria.
Beard says she has heard repeatedly from residents on Victoria that the current sidewalks are inadequate as they run along only one side of the street.
City staff noted concerns about the Ingram farmhouse, a site identified as historically significant.
The house, which is owned by the city, will become part of a park within the subdivision.
Findlay said possible uses for the house are a community centre or rental housing.
Community members will have the chance to weigh in on future uses for the farmhouse over the next few years, according to the capital budget.
Residents can hear more on the developments at a council meeting tonight at 7 p. m.
IF YOU’RE GOING
The proposed subdivisions at either side of Victoria Road North and Woodlawn Road will be discussed at a city council meeting today at 7 p.m.