Parkside Urban Towns (née 83 Elmsdale Dr) | U/C

[Markster]

Does the Elmsdale project meet the current zoning rules (which in turn conform to the city's official plan)?  If not, then I agree that the developer should change it and conform to that zoning.

But if it does, then you need to start by lobbying the city to change the zoning rules for areas outside the downtown core.  Developers will not, in general, develop projects to some higher ideals unless those ideals are enforced through zoning.

If they have their approvals (do they?) then I'm not about to suggest that anyone goes and lays down in front of a bulldozer.

And I absolutely agree with your second paragraph. Of course, once a developer needs a zoning change, all bets are off. Zoning changes are excellent opportunities to open up the Official Plan and ask for better design as a concession. The key is training the planning staff on what to ask for.