A proposal for new developments in St. Catharines to take place in a small section of the former General Motors property has come before St. Catharines city council. The former GM’s Ontario Street site spreads more than 50 acres, and is owned by Bayshore Groups.
Bayshore Groups is proposing a 37-unit subdivision to be built upon the former GM parking lot which is located at 10 Pleasant Avenue. These 37 units would span over an area of 3 acres (12.3 units/acre), and would have detached, semi-detached, and townhouse dwellings, as well as a six-unit condo development. These homes will be designed by Better Neighbourhoods development consultants of St. Catharines.
Proposal brought to council
City councillors approved the amendments for the land use and zoning of the property. These amendments changed the land from commercial to residential designation. This week the draft plan was brought before council, who approved the plan of subdivisions.
Subdivision details
Better Neighbourhoods’ representatives said that the new residential developments were designed with diversity, walkability, and inclusivity in mind. These homes will accommodate a wide range of demographics, with small apartments, housing over garages, and accessory units integrated within owner-occupied homes.
The subdivision is also designed to encourage home-based small businesses, with ample on-street parking for the houses. The homes along Thomas Street won’t have garages or driveways, because there is a rear lane planned in an effort to increase walkability in the neighbourhood.
Pricing and revenue
The houses planned for the subdivision will likely run between $300,000 to $500,000. The singles will range from 1,200 to 1,800 sq. ft. and townhouses are designed to range between 1,100 to 1,600 sq. ft.
The development will bring the city an increase of $75,000 in city tax revenue a year, and will mean a net increase of approximately $12 million in assessment.
