Proposal to build two towers of at least 30 stories beside Burlington’s Spencer Smith Park

There is a proposal for two towers of at least 30 stories to go up right next to Spencer Smith Park but, the area is only zoned for shorter buildings.

Right now, the owner wants to tear down the existing structure, The Waterfront Hotel, and build two towers, one 30 stories, the other 35. The property is zoned for a maximum of an 8 story tall building, so the proposal as it is right now doesn’t fit in with the city of Burlington’s plan for this area.

Just last year the Ontario Land Tribunal approved a development along the lakeshore of a 29 story condo which was against Burlington city council’s wishes. This opened the door for proposals like this.

The proposed towers will house 557 apartments, 122 hotel suites, and 9000 square meters of office and retail space, but the height isn’t the main concern of some residents. The real concern is the view of Lake Ontario from Brant to Elizabeth Sts.

City staff will continue to process the application and bring a recommendation to council before April.