Guelph City Council has voted in favor of a motion to increase building heights in the downtown area, a move aimed at encouraging growth and revitalization.
The decision, made on April 8, paves the way for some buildings to rise as high as 24 storeys in certain parts of the city. This significant change is expected to bring a new level of vibrancy to the downtown core, offering more space for both residents and businesses.
In a conversation on the Mike Farwell Show, Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie expressed his optimism about the decision, stating that height and density are key to the city’s future development. “We believe that increasing density and height is a positive thing,” Guthrie explained. “This change will help unlock land for new buildings, creating space for more people to live and work in our downtown.”
Mayor Guthrie also teased a forthcoming initiative, the Community Planning Permit policy, which is set to come before council later this year. This policy will aim to address the city’s affordable housing needs, potentially tying the height increase to the inclusion of affordable housing in new developments. “If we are offering additional height, we may be able to negotiate with developers to ensure a portion of that space is dedicated to affordable housing,” said Guthrie.
Along with the height increase, councilors approved 12 amendments to the original motion, which include updates on energy standards, heritage protection, and restrictions on building height in certain areas. These adjustments are designed to ensure that the downtown area’s growth is balanced and sustainable.
This motion follows over a year and a half of community engagement, including consultations and feedback from local residents and stakeholders. The city’s Downtown Second Plan sets an ambitious target of 200 people and jobs per hectare by 2051, aiming to transform the area into a dynamic and thriving urban center.
