By David Ros

Plans to build a mixed condominium and townhouse complex at the site of Bathurst Manor plaza near Dufferin Ave., and Finch Ave. W., has been met with opposition from local residents.The proposal seeks to create 44 townhouses and two 350 unit condominium buildings with retail space on the site at the corner of Wilmington Ave., and Overbrook Pl.Councillor James Pasternak (Ward 10 York Centre) said that he is opposed to the proposal as it would drastically alter the neighbourhood, since the surrounding area mostly consists of low-rise single family homes.“The level of intensification would put enormous pressure on existing infrastructure including water and electricity,” he said. “It would also create unspeakable traffic congestion; moreover, the heights and built form are out of character to the neighbourhood.”Residents loudly voiced their opposition to the development at a Sep. 30, 2013 community meeting where Adam Brown, a lawyer representing the plaza's owner, Kilbarry Holding Corp., presented the plan.Residents not only voiced concerns about the increased traffic and intensification, but also that the influx of new residents would add additional strain on the neighbourhood's already crowded schools.At the meeting, Brown assured residents in attendance that any school aged children living in the new development would be bussed to schools in other neighbourhoods, rather than local ones, which are currently full.Despite these assurances, Pasternak said residents have a right to be concerned.“There are added pressures on local schools, especially at the high school level, bussing is not ideal,” Pasternak said. “It creates new pressures on the local road system and extends the school day unnecessarily.“Bussing is also expensive, and the cost will take away resources from other educational supports.”The status of Bathurst Manor plaza has been up in the air ever since Sunnybrook produce store was demolished in 2004.At the Sep. 2013 meeting, Brown stated that neighbourhood plazas, such as Bathurst Manor were going into decline, and that residential developments were a more “viable” use of the land.Pasternak said he believes that “modest residential construction with a strong retail presence,” would provide the best development of the land.“Despite the decline and neglect of this plaza, it is still quite popular and can operate as a community focal point,” Pasternak said. “We need to build communities such that shopping is near and there is a balance between commercial and residential.” We want to hear from you! Tell us what you would like to see at the site of Bathurt Manor plaza by emailing us at info@downsviewadvocate.ca