Six towers near St-Laurent Station pass first hurdle of approval

A huge development in Ottawa’s east end was approved by the Planning and Housing Committee and will be heading to council.

Staff at the committee level recommended that amendments be made to the Official Plan and Zoning By-Law to approve a development that will see six high-rise towers built near St. Laurent Shopping Centre on Belfast Road.

The blocks of buildings could bring almost 1,770 units to the area, helping the city create dense housing projects. It includes a 1,800 metre public park and commercial space below. Tower heights range from 21 to 35 storeys.

“The proposed height increase to 35 storeys in this context is appropriate for a Hub and Protected Major Transit Station Area. The development supports the Official Plan goals by allowing higher densities in areas closer to transit stations,” staff wrote in a report.

This, staff say, is to encourage 15-minute neighbourhoods, which is a concept that anyone living in the area can meet their needs within the certain radius.

The project will head to council, where councillors have the opportunity to ratify and approve the decision.