Preparing for LPAT Appeal of Long Semis at 582 Churchill
A note from Eric Milligan:
On February 20, the City’s Committee of Adjustment approved a developer’s proposal to tear down the home at 582 Churchill Ave., subdivide the property, and put up two “long-semi” detached buildings. Each building will contain two primary dwelling units and two secondary dwelling units. That’s a total of 8 new dwellings where there is now only one.
This type of excessive intensification has been rampant throughout Westboro. If the developer is allowed to proceed with building 8 dwelling units, it will be a “green light” for other developers to do the same (or worse). Eventually, the homes on Churchill, from Byron to Carling, will be replaced by higher density developments, including low-rise apartments.
Two Westboro neighbours have appealed the COA’s approval of the development. The Ontario Local Planning Appeal Tribunal (LPAT) will hold a one-day hearing on August 7th.
A meeting has been organized of the affected neighbours on Churchill and Edison avenues for Thursday, July 4th, 7 p.m. in the “Neo Lore” room at the Dovercourt Community Centre. The purpose of the meeting is to explain the LPAT appeal process and have neighbours make decisions on how they would like to proceed. It is possible to participate in a LPAT appeal without hiring a lawyer or planner. However, the chances of success are reduced. In any case, there are things that neighbours can do to help prepare for the appeal.
