Brampton Eyes 8-Storey Mixed-Use Development on Queen Street West
Brampton is reviewing plans for an eight-storey mixed-use development on Queen Street West, near Creditview Road, that could bring 94 new residential units along with commercial and office space to the west end of the city. The proposed project reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to encourage transit-oriented growth and create complete, inclusive communities.
Details of the Proposed Development
The development, planned for 1453 Queen Street West, is being proposed by Fateh Developments Inc., with the application submitted through Glen Schnarr and Associates Inc. The 0.69-hectare site currently houses a one-storey vacant commercial building, which would be replaced by the new structure.
City staff are recommending that the application to amend the official plan and zoning bylaw to accommodate the development be approved. The proposal is scheduled to be considered at Brampton’s Planning and Development Committee meeting on the evening of December 1.
Building Composition
The eight-storey building would combine residential, retail, and office uses to create a mixed-use environment. According to the city staff report prepared by planner Saghar Massah:
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Residential Units: Floors three through eight would contain 94 residential units, including 42 one-bedroom and 52 two-bedroom units.
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Commercial Space: The ground floor would feature 400 square metres of retail space designed to support local businesses and community needs.
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Office Space: Office areas totaling 973 square metres would be located across the ground and second floors.
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Affordable Housing: The applicant plans to allocate 10 per cent of the residential units as affordable housing, aligning with the city’s goals to increase accessible housing options.
Planning Considerations
City staff highlighted several reasons for supporting the proposed development:
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Transit-Oriented Growth: The location along Queen Street West provides excellent access to existing public transit, supporting sustainable urban development.
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Housing Objectives: By adding 94 residential units, the project contributes to Brampton’s broader housing strategy, addressing both market and affordable housing needs.
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Community Integration: The mix of retail and office uses is designed to create a complete, vibrant community, promoting interaction and convenience for residents.
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Environmental Protection: Plans include buffers and mitigation measures to protect adjacent natural heritage features, ensuring the development is environmentally responsible.
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Infrastructure Efficiency: The proposal is designed to utilize existing municipal infrastructure effectively, avoiding unnecessary strain on city services.
Public Engagement and Concerns
The city’s planning process included a statutory public meeting on April 7, attended by four residents. Community concerns primarily focused on:
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Building Height: Residents questioned whether the eight-storey height would fit with the surrounding neighbourhood and maintain the area’s character.
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Traffic Impacts: Concerns were raised about potential congestion along Queen Street and the surrounding road network.
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Environmental Protection: Neighbouring natural heritage features prompted discussions about buffers, mitigation measures, and preservation strategies.
City staff noted that the developer has incorporated strategies to address these issues, including environmental mitigation and urban design considerations to balance height with context.
Alignment With City Planning Goals
The proposal aligns with Brampton’s strategic planning objectives by promoting higher-density, mixed-use development along key corridors. According to the city staff report:
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The development encourages walkability and reduces reliance on private vehicles, supporting sustainable transportation initiatives.
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Mixed-use design fosters inclusive communities by combining housing, retail, and office opportunities within a single location.
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Environmental buffers and responsible site planning protect nearby natural heritage features, demonstrating the city’s commitment to sustainable urban growth.
The integration of commercial, office, and residential components is intended to provide both economic and social benefits, creating opportunities for local employment while enhancing neighbourhood vibrancy.
Affordable Housing Component
A notable aspect of the project is the inclusion of affordable housing. By dedicating 10 per cent of units to affordable housing, the development contributes to Brampton’s efforts to provide housing options accessible to a wider range of residents. City planners emphasized that this step supports broader social inclusion objectives while meeting the city’s official plan targets for housing diversity.
Next Steps in the Approval Process
Following the Planning and Development Committee meeting, the proposal will continue through Brampton’s approval process, which includes:
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Committee Review: City staff and committee members will discuss the development in detail, considering public input and planning recommendations.
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Council Decision: After committee review, the application will be forwarded to Brampton City Council for a final vote on amending the official plan and zoning bylaw.
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Building Permits: If approved, the developer may proceed with building permits, site preparation, and eventual construction.
The structured planning process ensures that all stakeholder concerns—including residents, city planners, and environmental advocates—are carefully considered before final approval.
Potential Benefits to the Community
If realized, the Queen Street West development could bring several benefits to the local community:
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New Housing Supply: Adding 94 residential units supports population growth and addresses demand for diverse housing options.
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Economic Activity: Ground-floor retail and office space would create jobs and stimulate local economic activity.
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Transit-Friendly Design: Location along a major corridor promotes public transit use, reducing traffic pressures and environmental impacts.
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Community Vibrancy: Mixed-use buildings contribute to active, walkable streetscapes, enhancing the livability of the neighbourhood.
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Environmental Stewardship: Incorporation of natural buffers and mitigation measures protects sensitive environmental areas, reflecting sustainable urban planning practices.
Challenges and Considerations
While the proposal offers many benefits, challenges remain. City staff will need to ensure that traffic management, building height, and environmental considerations are adequately addressed. Continued consultation with residents and stakeholders will be critical to balancing growth with community character and livability.
Conclusion
Brampton’s proposed eight-storey mixed-use development on Queen Street West represents a significant step toward creating transit-oriented, inclusive, and sustainable communities. By integrating residential, retail, and office spaces, the project seeks to meet the city’s housing, economic, and environmental goals.
As the Planning and Development Committee reviews the proposal on December 1, residents and city planners will have the opportunity to shape the final outcome, ensuring that the development enhances both the neighbourhood and Brampton’s broader urban landscape.
If approved, the project would signal a continued commitment by the city to smart growth, community vibrancy, and responsible urban planning along key corridors.