Bannatyne project height capped by committee vote tie

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This article was published 26/04/2022 (974 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A mixed-use development proposed for Bannatyne Avenue has been denied permission to reach the height sought by its proponents.

On Monday, council’s property and development committee cast a tied vote on the developer’s appeal of a height restriction for the structure planned to replace a surface parking lot at 127 Bannatyne Ave.

The proposal called for a building 123.5-feet (37.6-metres) tall before its mechanical roof deck and parapet are factored in, exceeding the maximum height of 100 ft. set for the character sector of downtown.

Winnipeg’s planning, property and development director rejected a request to vary the maximum height, sparking the appeal.

Couns. Vivian Santos and Janice Lukes voted to support the appeal, which Couns. Kevin Klein and Cindy Gilroy voted against. The tie equates to a loss at city hall, which means the height restriction will be upheld.

The vote came after many Exchange District residents opposed the height increase, arguing the building would clash with the area and tower over neighbouring structures.

However, the developer argued the height was needed to make the project financially feasible, and said the 11-storey structure was designed to blend in well with the area.

Last year, the property and development committee voted to allow a previous version of the proposal to reach 110 ft., after the director rejected a 145-ft. building.

Details of 127 Bannatyne project