Committee approves Catherine Street condos

The city’s planning committee approved a proposal on Monday for a 203 Catherine St. condo tower.

Despite Somerset Coun. Diane Holmes’ objections, the plan for a 23-storey tower received unanimous support. She said the proposal by Toronto-based developer, Brad J. Lamb Realty, is unrealistic and the height is over the top.

The plan calls for a major rezoning of the existing site, currently occupied by a Media Arts Building. Neighbours in the vicinity have complained about increased demands for parking and an overwhelming shadow caused by the height increase.

A community design plan for Centretown, between the city’s planning department and residents, is in the works. The plan does calls for taller buildings along Catherine Street but Holmes says this case is extreme and most of the street is spoken for by buildings that aren’t going anywhere.

The project now moves to city council for approval on Dec. 14.