New Seniors Residence Approved for Wanless/Bedford Park Neighbourhood in Toronto
By Lucas on Mar 12, 2014
After eight years in the planning and approval stages, the proposed seniors residence for 100 Ranleigh Avenue in the Wanless/Bedford Park neighbourhood of Toronto has finally taken a big step forward.
In February, Bedford Park Seniors Residence received a favourable ruling from City Council and the withdrawal of a single appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board. “We are thrilled that our vision of seniors aging in place in our vibrant community will now be realized,” said Wendy Daniels, president of Bedford Park Seniors Residence Corporation (BPSR), which is a not-for-profit organization that owns and operates the property.
In a recent press release, Bedford Park is described as “barrier-free” living for seniors. The development will feature 46 units starting at 720 square feet, and a meeting space for community and Church use. There will also be office space for Senior Persons Resources in North Toronto (SPRINT) and other care providers so that they can offer lifestyle services that help seniors live independently.
“Many seniors who live nearby have expressed their desire to stay in their beloved neighbourhood once they are unable or unwilling to manage their own house,” Daniels stated, “and families here like the idea of having close proximity to parents and grandparents.”
Located near Yonge and Lawrence, steps from the subway and a nice walk to all the amenities of Yonge and Eglinton, we’re not surprised that people who live in this neighbourhood want to continue doing so. With Bazis, Minto, Tridel, Pemberton, and other developers doing their part to enhance the Yonge and Eglinton neighbourhood, there will be even more of a reason to have a cozy seniors residence just a few blocks away. Families and couples moving into these condos will want that option to keep their parents close, and more importantly, the parents will love the opportunity to be close to their families. Granted, there will only be 46 units at Bedford Park, but the fact that the project is moving forward is a sign that the City recognizes a need for this kind of housing.
There has been a waitlist for Bedford Park since 2009, and around 25% of the units have already been reserved. By the time shovels break ground (possibly this spring), Daniels believes that close to every unit will be reserved.
The interesting part is that the units aren’t rentals or condos. BPSR is offering them on a life lease basis. Basically, the future resident or family of makes a deposit, which gives the resident the right to occupy and use the facilities. After leaving the residence, the value of the property is returned.
If all goes according to plan over the next year, Bedford Park should be completed by the end of 2015. For more information, visit bedfordparkseniorsresidence.com.
