Newmarket's Glenway battle begins at OMB

Newmarket Era
March 18, 2014
By Chris Simon

The future of the Glenway lands and the town's ability to decide how it will deal with growth are in the hands of the Ontario Municipal Board now.

Opening arguments were heard on the first day of a hearing that will ultimately determine the legitimacy of the proposed 146-acre Marianneville Developments site, which is on the former Glenway Country Club property, at a Newmarket hotel  yesterday.

The Marianneville lands were not identified in the town's official plan, Mary Bull, a lawyer representing the town, said, adding, given the magnitude of this proposed development, the town should have an opportunity to consider the principles of development. The development of these lands is part of a broader study that will enable this town to manage its own growth.

Under York Region's growth plans, the town's population is expected to increase from about 85,000 in 2012 to 97,000 by 2031. This project would represent a significant amount of the town's population growth, but the town deems it unnecessary, because it can still meet provincial growth targets without Glenway, Ms Bull said.

Marianneville wants to construct 730 homes on lands south of Davis Drive West, between Yonge and Bathurst streets. If approved, the project would accommodate about 1,900 people.

Phase One asks if there's any policy basis upon which to deny the development, Marianneville lawyer Ira Kagan said, noting the development would help the municipality reach population and intensification targets.

Regardless, the question of 'need' is not relevant in this case, Mr. Kagan said.

The hearing has been divided into two phases. The first will decide if development is permitted on the land.

A second phase could start at the end of March, if needed.