Private developer forging ahead with controversial Guelph student housing complex

Mississauga-based developer Abode Varsity Living is developing detailed plans for a controversial new student housing complex just south of the University of Guelph, at the corner of Gordon Street and Stone Road. The city this past fall received a preliminary site plan that includes 5 towers ranging from 7 to 11 storeys high that are all linked together on the same expansive development site of some 17,000 square metres. Both UoGuelph officials and students have expressed concerns over the proposed complex. "This is a third-party development, thus student safety is a huge concern," says Tyler Valiquette, Local Affairs Commissioner of the UoGuelph Central Student Association. "Affordability is also a worry." When the project was given the green light in spring 2013, a university spokesperson said, “We’re concerned about shadow effect on our front entrance, we’re concerned about safety issues, cars and large volumes of people crossing an already busy intersection.” Abode’s plans will go to a municipal site plan review committee for consideration, and then the project can be considered for building permits. Guelph Mercury