The Committee considered Development Services Department report, DSD-2025-110, dated February 28, 2025, regarding the draft phase I Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA), for the property municipally addressed as 63 Courtland Avenue East.
D. Choudhry, Heritage Planner provided an overview of the report. S. Bassanese, Manager, Site Plan and G. Stevenson, Director of Development and Housing Approvals were also in attendance to respond to questions from the Committee.
V. Hicks, MHBC Planning and S. Fraser were in attendance in support of the Heritage Impact Assessment.
It was noted Staff are seeking feedback related to the Draft Phase I Heritage Impact Assessment for the property municipally addressed as 63 Courtland Avenue East. D. Choudhry indicated a Phase II HIA will be submitted at a later date and is expected to address proposed alterations, integration with new construction, and any additional removals.
Councillor Christine Michaud entered the meeting at this time.
In response to questions from the Committee, S. Fraser advised that demolition is expected to begin immediately upon permit approval.
The Committee discussed the potential for salvaging materials or architectural features of cultural heritage value prior to demolition. It was recommended that a salvage plan be developed before proceeding with Phase I demolition, including consideration for construction materials, posts, and other design elements to be incorporated into future development.
Concerns were raised regarding the proposed demolition of several buildings that, while functional in nature, contribute to the area's character. Clarification was provided that portions of Buildings 1, 2, and 3 are proposed for demolition, though elements with potential heritage value—such as the front façade and the first four windows of Building 1—are proposed to be retained.
In response to questions from the Committee, it was noted that the rear portion of Building 1 is a later addition. D. Choudhry also noted the site was associated with the J.M. Schneider business from approximately 1897 to 1924, however, not all existing structures are original or possess heritage or design value.
In response to further questions regarding security and site management, D. Choudhry confirmed that the site is currently vacant and a mothballing plan will be implemented following demolition of non-heritage structures, involving fencing, stabilization, and temporary protection measures to prevent further deterioration of retained heritage elements.