Belleville City Council has approved a recommendation directing staff to conduct a Public Information session to gather public feedback on an alternative development option for the affordable housing project at the former Queen Mary School property.
The new option would see two acres of parkland preserved and a total of 100 housing units, a drop of 50 units from the original proposal.
This was done in response to a deputation this past August from Friends of West Hill Greenspace who had concerns about the original proposal’s potential loss of parkland.
Original proposal for Queen Mary School property. (Belleville council agenda October 28 2024)
When asked by Councillor Paul Carr if the property could increase its maximum height density to accommodate for more units, Desta McAdam with the city’s Policy Planning department, said it is possible, but it would depend on whether it would be the appropriate transition for the existing community.
The report also states that the former school building is in “good to fair condition.” Staff suggested to council it would stipulate a condition that no proposal for demolition of the building be accepted.
It also recommended council prioritize a new playground and other recreational facilities in deliberations for the city’s 10-year Capital Plan.
Option 2 for Queen Mary School redevelopment features more parkland and fewer residential units. (Belleville council agenda October 28 2024)
