For the last year, Amexon Developments and Heritage York Holdings have been seeking approval for Central Park, a large mixed-use proposal at Sheppard Ave., just west of Leslie Street in Toronto. On behalf of the local residents, Willowdale Councillor David Shiner has served as the primary opposition against the project. Well, it looks like Shiner and Amexon have finally come to an agreement, at least on the size of the project.

Central Park by Amexon

When Amexon first proposed the plans for Central Park in May 2012, they were seeking approval for 2,098 condo units in six buildings, ranging in size from 27 to 43 storeys. Shiner and the residents didn’t take too kindly to a proposal of this magnitude.

The second time Amexon presented their plans to the community, they had scaled back the project to five buildings, ranging in size from 21 to 39 storeys. Still, it was turned down by Shiner and the residents. With a second rejection, Amexon decided to take the project to the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB).

On the eve of the OMB hearing, Shiner and Amexon came to an agreement on the size of the project. Amexon has settled on 1,464 condo units in five buildings, with sizes reaching no higher than 31 storeys. As far as the number of units goes, the project is about one-third smaller than originally proposed. According to Shiner, the residents association was willing to have heights reach 34 storeys, but he believed that 31 was better for the community as a whole.

OMB hearings are still being held, as the City and Amexon have come to a disagreement over the developer’s financial contribution to community services.

What do you think of Amexon’s Central Park?

The area around Sheppard and Leslie has a number of low-rise homes, so we kind of understand how a multi-tower project was being fought. You can’t blame Amexon for recognizing the area as one with great potential though. There are a number of restaurants along Sheppard Ave. East, the Oriole GO Station and Highway 401 are just a few minutes away from the site, and there are even a number of elementary schools in the area. Plus, there are many parks peppering the neighbourhood, and the site borders the very large Villaways Park.

This site is a great opportunity to offer the condo lifestyle without the downtown setting. Not every person who desires condo living wants to be right downtown, so they need options like Central Park.

What do you think of the plan for Central Park? Are you happy with the agreement that was reached?