Food Desert No More?

Arnon Development Corporation is proposing a new development at the parking lot bordering Preston, Beech, Rochester and Aberdeen streets that includes a “major supermarket.” While not within the boundaries of the Glebe Annex, this location is very close to our neighbourhood, located just across the street from the Booth St. Complex.

There are two phases of the proposal. Phase one, which could commence construction as early as spring 2021, includes a number of buildings from six to 15 storeys that would contain 295 apartment units, 346 underground parking spots, and 40,000 square feet of retail space. The retail space is expected to house an approximately 25,000 square foot grocery store (about the size of an average Metro), as well as another major retail store, such as an LCBO or pharmacy. While a grocery store chain has not yet been confirmed, Arnon indicates that it is in very serious talks with a major food retailer.

The second phase would include a 26-storey residential tower with 245 apartment or condominium suites and approximately 6,000 square feet of retail space.

More details are available on the Arnon website, which also contains a link to the site plan application: https://www.arnon.ca/index.php/arnon-plans-for-little-italy.

Planning Committee is expected to review the proposal on 27 February.

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