Large housing development in north Cambridge proposed to city council
Posted Nov 22, 2023 07:33:02 AM.
Last Updated Nov 22, 2023 11:28:49 AM.
Cambridge city councillors on Monday night heard a proposal for a new housing development that would add 1,200 housing units.
The development at 895 Riverbank Drive would be in six phases and take seven to 10 years to complete.
The housing units include two to three storey townhouses, rear lane townhouses, and single detached homes.
A spokesperson at the council meeting on behalf of the developer, Madison Group said that as of now, none of the housing units would be allocated for affordable housing.
He did argue, however, that the units being offered are more affordable than a normal single family dwelling.
“We’re trying to deal with truly affordable homes,” said Ward 4 Councillor Ross Earnshaw. “If we can meet the targets of affordability; that is deeply affordable homes, that would be very preferable.”
Ward 2 Councillor Mike Devine also expressed concern about the amount of parking available for the development.
The plan includes one parking space per unit and 0.25 for visitors and street parking; Devine noted there is no street parking allowed during the winter months and asked the developer to take a look at the plans for parking.
“Parking is going to be an issue because of the bylaws we have in this city,” said Devine. “This is not as cut and dry as it is in other cities because of our bylaws.
Monday’s meeting also allowed residents to make delegations on the proposed development.
One resident of Riverbank Drive, Grainne Aitken, said she is concerned about the planned subdivision removing a planned central park in north Cambridge.
She said she would like to see it added back into the proposed development.
“This park is envisioned to be a central point for the neighbourhood and there is nothing of it’s kind currently in north Cambridge,” said Aitken.
“With such a large number of new residents living and working in this area, this park is not only welcome, it is vital for the health and wellbeing of our citizens.”
No decision has been made by council yet, with next steps to be for city staff to review the plan before making a recommendation to council.
