Ontario Construction News staff writer
Approval has been granted for Canada Lands Company’s draft plan of subdivision for Phase 1 of Arbo at Downsview (formerly the William Baker site).
This crucial step clears the way for the plan to transform the property into a mixed-use community and allows for the division of the large site into smaller parcels for development and public amenities.
Canada Lands is now a step closer to obtaining the necessary municipal approvals to sell or lease the development lands to builders who will bring the project to life.
The Phase 1 subdivision approval also finalizes the layout and property boundaries outlined in the Arbo District Plan, developed in partnership with the local community since 2019. The plan, designed by architect The Planning Partnership, ensures all city requirements are met, fostering a sustainable, inclusive neighbourhood for future generations.
A transit-oriented community will have a variety of housing options, and significant green spaces including an existing natural heritage woodlot and a newly planned ecological park at the heart of the community.
Phase 1 will feature a multi-block, mixed-use development at Sheppard Avenue West and Keele Street, with approximately 1,400 residential units, including at least 20 per cent affordable housing. Canada Lands will contribute about 20 acres to the City of Toronto for public use, including the woodlot and new parks. In addition to housing, the development will offer commercial, retail, and seniors’ amenities.
A new east-west street, running between Keele Street and Sheppard Avenue West, will serve the Phase 1 blocks.
Located at the northeast corner of Sheppard Avenue West and Keele Street, Arbo is situated near Downsview Park to the south and the Downsview Park TTC/GO Station to the north. The site is about 13 kilometres from downtown Toronto, with convenient access to major transit routes, including Highway 401 and the 400-series highways.
Phase 1 of will be developed in three key blocks:
- Block 1: A 1.5-hectare (3.7-acre) site at the intersection of Keele Street and Sheppard Avenue, designated for residential development.
- Block 3A: A 1.1-hectare (2.7-acre) site for residential housing.
- Block 3B: A 0.9-hectare (2.2-acre) site for housing. Block 3B is currently being offered for sale as part of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Canada Lands’ Federal Land Initiative.
Following approval of the draft plan of subdivision, Canada Lands will address the conditions outlined in the approval, including detailed engineering design for public infrastructure. Work is expected to begin in 2025, with subdivision registration to finalize the block divisions and transfer ownership to the City and future development partners.
