Ossington Avenue is…has lost (hope not) it’s industrial nature and is moving to one that is more commercial and residential in nature many are saying which has caused the city to begin to study the issue…
Summary
The Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, in his report dated May 25, 2009, has recommended that a study be undertaken to review the impact of restaurants (and similar uses) on Ossington Avenue, between Queen Street West and Dundas Street West. This study is intended to determine the nature of conflicts between restaurants (and similar uses) and the surrounding neighbourhood areas, whether the current zoning provisions are sufficient to address these conflicts or whether the Zoning By-law should be amended to address these conflicts, and to identify appropriate enforcement strategies.
analysis so far
The analysis identified two types of land use conflicts emerging as a result of this transition. The first conflict revolved around the remaining industrial operations using Ossington Avenue for loading and unloading of raw materials and goods, which posed safety concerns to the increasing number of pedestrians using the street. The second conflict stemmed from the introduction of restaurants to the street which have an entertainment function. These ‘restaurants’, mainly karaoke bars and nightclubs, were generating community concerns with respect to noise, vandalism, disruptive behaviour, late night activity and parking congestion.
Review the impact of restaurants (and similar uses) for the lands on and flanking Ossington Avenue, between Queen Street West and Dundas Street West. It also recommends that an Interim Control By-law be adopted to prohibit restaurants (and similar uses) for a period of one year. [Full report at city site]
Councillor Pantalone, seconded by Councillor Rae, recommends:
1. That City Council adopt the recommendations contained in the report May 25, 2009 from the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, respecting a planning study and Interim Control By-law for Ossington Avenue, between Queen Street West and Dundas Street West.
1 Comment
I live in the area. Things are getting pretty hectic. All the old portuguese shops are gone, and all these loud party-goes are moving in. The street's a mess on the weekends, and the patrons do pour into the residential streets, continuing the party as they go. The city really needs to pass a new by-law redefining "restaurants" and "entertainment" venues. I do like the revitalization, but wish there was more control of the "entertainment". Ossington's losing it's old character, and in a few more years, it'll all be gone.