Thompson Residences get final approval
By on Mar 07, 2011
The Thompson Residences, a development by Freed, has finally received approval to rise twelve stories.
The former Travelodge Motel site at 621 King St West has been a hot topic of discussion recently.
The main issue that the city has had with the development was its size. The area of King St W. is zoned for a maximum of 20 metres. Thompson residences will feature two towers, one 36 meters and one 40 meters.
The decision was made by Ontario Municipal Board member Reid Rossi, who stated this in his report:
"Revitalization of King Street West has been occurring over the past 10-15 years and a dense, mixed-use urban community has developed in converted and new buildings. Many mid-rise and taller buildings have been approved both by the City’s Committee of Adjustment and this Board for the surrounding area. One finds taller buildings along Bathurst Street and Spadina Avenue with very tall buildings located on King Street east of Spadina. King and Bathurst Streets and Spadina Avenue are major arterial streets, with a number of local public streets, public and private lanes occurring between blocks in the subject area."
The concern that the city had, chiefly local counselor Adam Vaughan, as that the height of the building was out of context when compared to others.
“What’s the point of doing any planning? That’s the message that’s being sent.”
Freed developments has a strong hold on the area, with Fashion House, 500 Wellington West and 20 Stewart all projects located in the King West district.
