Protect Queens Common
We are a united group of community members volunteering our time to oppose the proposed re-development of 900 Bonacord Avenue, in Whitby Ontario. Our mission is to preserve the character, safety, and environmental sustainability of our neighborhood while safeguarding residents, the local school, daycare, green spaces, endangered species and the overall well-being of our community. While our primary goal is to stop this re-development, if it proceeds, we are committed to minimizing its impact by advocating for responsible urban planning, transparent decision-making, and meaningful public consultation that prioritize the needs and values of our community.
Key Issues of Advocacy
Traffic
Bonacord is currently built to only a third of its proposed length and lacks the structural, operational, and connectivity standards of an arterial road. Its existing configuration functions more like a collector road, channeling local traffic to arterial routes. To advocate for its reclassification, we will collaborate with municipal planners and experts to present data on traffic volumes, connectivity needs, and limitations, demonstrating its suitability as a collector road and pushing for its re-designation in the official plan.
Zoning Bylaws
The C1 zoning for 900 Bonacord Avenue in Whitby supports low-rise commercial uses that suit the area’s character and scale. Allowing an eight-story development would increase traffic, strain parking, and disrupt the neighborhood’s infrastructure and dynamic. Preserving the C1 zoning aligns with Whitby’s planning goals, safeguards vital services like the daycare, and protects the community’s family-friendly environment. We are committed to ensuring this zoning remains in place to uphold the neighborhood’s integrity.
School
This development will significantly impact Colonel J.E. Farewell, potentially pushing it beyond capacity. This influx of students may strain resources, increase class sizes, and necessitate disruptive infrastructure expansions, jeopardizing the quality of education and learning environment. To address these concerns, we will work with the Durham District School Board to highlight the risks of overcrowding and resource limitations. We will also encourage parents and educators to voice their concerns at public consultations and town meetings while presenting data on the school’s current capacity and anticipated student increases to advocate for careful planning that safeguards educational standards.
Daycare
The re-development will destroy The Apple Tree Preschool and Learning Centre, eliminating a vital childcare option in a community already facing daycare waitlists of over two years. This loss will worsen the childcare crisis, forcing families to make difficult decisions and straining local resources. To fight for the daycare, we will mobilize community support through petitions and testimonials, advocate with local officials to preserve or integrate the daycare into redevelopment plans, and highlight its critical role through media and public awareness campaigns. Accessible childcare is essential for families and the community’s future.
Environment
The proposed redevelopment threatens critical protections for the endangered Redside Dace, risking irreversible damage to its habitat, which is vital for local biodiversity and ecological balance. We will first oppose the permits by presenting evidence of the species’ endangered status and advocating for strict enforcement of habitat protection laws. If permits are granted, we will work with environmental experts, conservation authorities, and the community to mitigate harm, ensure regulatory compliance, and explore alternative solutions to protect this essential habitat
Health & Safety
Construction projects can significantly affect nearby residents, especially vulnerable groups like children and those with respiratory conditions, due to noise, dust, and environmental disruption. If the plans proceed, we will advocate for strict measures such as dust suppression, noise barriers, restricted work hours, and regular environmental monitoring. Clear communication with residents will also be a priority to minimize disruptions and safeguard community health and well-being.
Privacy & Property Values
The proposed development raises concerns about the privacy of nearby residents, as taller structures may overlook private properties, disrupting the sense of security and seclusion in the neighborhood. Additionally, such developments can affect property values, with increased density, traffic, and noise potentially deterring future buyers. To address these issues, we will advocate for design considerations to mitigate impacts on existing homes and protect the character and value of the community.
Proposed Re-development
BIGLIERI GROUP intends to put forth applications for Official Plan Amendment & Zoning By-Law Amendment to 900 Bonacord Avenue Whitby. The Proposal seeks to develop an 8-story rental apartment building with a total gross floor area of 16,807 m2 and a resulting unit yield of 286. Vehicular access to the Subject site is proposed from McQuay Boulevard, which provides access to an underground parking garage and a turn around area for passenger pick up and drop off. Additionally 10 visitor parking spaces are proposed, at the rear of the building at grade. Vehicular parking is proposed to be located below grade two levels with 161 parking spaces per level. In total 328 parking spaces are proposed of which 286 are resident spaces and 42 are for visitors. 536 m2 of outdoor amenity space is proposed at grade at the rear of the building. A total of approximately 430m2 of indoor amenity space is proposed on level 1. A copy of the conceptual site plan is below.
Questions?
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