Scarborough could soon get a lot taller, thanks to a newly proposed development that would reach 52 storeys in height.
Developer Tridel and non-profit disability services provider Community Living Toronto (CLTO) announced a partnership on Monday to bring a five-tower mixed-use community to 1710-1712 Ellesmere Road, the former Harold R. Lawson School located just east of McCowan Road.
The towers, reaching 28 to 52 storeys in height, will house approximately 2,200 residential units, 280 of which will be rentals. The units will include a mix of market-rate condos and independent and supported living units, with people with intellectual disabilities who are serviced by CLTO having an opportunity to live in the community.
“Developing vibrant neighbourhoods where people with intellectual disabilities are included from the beginning, is more important than ever,” says Brad Saunders, CEO of CLTO. “The announcement today of our partnership is an example of how Community Living Toronto continues to create unique, supportive spaces for people with an intellectual disability and their families.”
Tridel
CLTO currently owns the Scarborough site, with one of the five proposed buildings set to be a new "bespoke" home for the non-profit. A planning backgrounder describes the future building as a "shining example of integrating rental, program, and community space." It will feature "engaging and welcoming indoor and outdoor shared areas to foster social inclusion, including accessibility features that go beyond AODA requirements."
CLTO is planning to apply for the Open-Door Affordable Housing Program to waive development chargers for all affordable units.
In addition to the residential aspects, the development will include retail and commercial space, a new public park, and privately owned public spaces. There will also be a focus on sustainability, including the use of energy efficient features.
“Tridel is proud to partner with Community Living Toronto,” said Jim Ritchie, President of Tridel. “This proposed redevelopment assists in addressing the housing needs in the Greater Toronto Area. We are excited to bring our expertise in delivering quality homes and to support the build of an innovative and inclusive community that is welcoming to all.”
Although a development application has not yet been filed with the City of Toronto, in December 2021, the City identified the Harold R. Lawson School, built in 1963, as a property to be assessed for a heritage designation. To date, it has not received any heritage designation.
