Canada Lands is set to develop the Wellington Basin area, which has been neglected in recent years. The 8.5-hectare former federal port lands on the south side of the Peel Basin will be transformed into a mixed community, providing space for economic development, housing, and reintegrating the former port lands into the city. Christopher Sweetnam Holmes, senior director of real estate for Canada Lands, explains that the development plan includes the construction of 2,800 new homes, with 1,000 of them being affordable and social housing. The former Wellington Basin will be excavated to create a natural swimming basin with a beach, adding to the overall appeal of the area.
Architect Ron Rayside, from Rayside Labossière, sees the development as an opportunity for affordable housing and the creation of a cohesive neighborhood. However, Montreal independent city councillor Craig Sauvé raises concerns about the affordability of the housing in the project, especially given the current housing crisis. Sauvé believes that many in the community would prefer to see 100% of the public land remain public for uses such as public housing. It is unclear how much of the affordable housing units will be designated for social housing. Construction for the five-year project is scheduled to begin in 2025.
Despite some concerns, advocates see the Wellington Basin development as a chance to address urgent needs in the area. With the potential to become an extension of Pointe-Saint-Charles and Old Montreal, the project aims to provide affordable housing and create a neighborhood that makes sense. The area, which has been largely ignored in recent years, is seen as having a lot of potential for development and revitalization. The project is expected to bring economic opportunities and much-needed housing to the community.
The development plan for the Wellington Basin area is part of a larger effort to transform the neglected port lands into a vibrant and mixed-use community. Canada Lands aims to fill the area with new homes, affordable housing, and recreational spaces, such as a natural swimming basin with a beach. The project is seen as an opportunity to reintegrate the former port lands into the city and create a dynamic neighborhood that meets the needs of the community. With construction set to begin in 2025, the project is expected to revitalize the area and provide much-needed housing options for residents.
As the development of the Wellington Basin area moves forward, there are concerns about the affordability of the housing being proposed. City councillor Craig Sauvé questions the definition of affordability in a neighborhood where housing prices are already high. The percentage of affordable units that will be designated for social housing is also unclear, raising questions about the inclusivity of the project. While there is excitement about the potential for revitalization and economic development in the area, ensuring that the housing options meet the needs of all residents remains a key consideration for the success of the project.
Overall, the Wellington Basin development project represents an important opportunity to transform neglected port lands into a vibrant community that provides economic opportunities and affordable housing options. With a focus on creating a cohesive neighborhood and integrating public spaces, such as the natural swimming basin, the project aims to meet urgent needs in the area. While there are concerns about the affordability and inclusivity of the housing being proposed, advocates see the project as a chance to revitalize the area and create a more sustainable and livable community for residents. The five-year development plan is expected to bring new life to the Wellington Basin and provide a model for future urban development initiatives in the city.
