Residential development proposed for Burlington Centre mall

Burlington Centre mall could see significant changes as residential towers have been proposed to replace Hudson’s Bay.

A proposal on the City of Burlington’s website outlines plans for 11 residential towers up to 37 stories high.

The proposed development includes just over 3,400 residential units, a new public park, a retail floor area, and one new north-south street and one new east-west street.

Hudson’s Bay at the Burlington Centre was one of many locations to close after the company announced it would liquidate all but six stores.

The retailer cited reduced consumer spending, trade tensions between Canada and the U.S., and a post-pandemic drop in sales as reasons for the store closures.

CHCH News spoke with members of the community Monday, who said more housing is needed in Burlington, but suggest the plan’s design could be scaled down.

“11 sky-scrapers is too many – I think maybe half-a-dozen even would be better,” said one person.

“I’ve been in Burlington probably about 40 years and I’ve been here quite a while,” said another person. “I do think it should be not expensive condos, it needs to be, you know, [what] people can afford.”

READ MORE: Hamilton historian says family owns oldest Hudson’s Bay Company collection

Terry Caddo, president and CEO of the Burlington Chamber of Commerce, says the project will have a great impact on the community.

“When you have density like this, which is really important, then you get grocery stores, you get doctor’s offices, you get dental offices, you get daycare and it all comes together,” said Caddo.

Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward says the project is at the concept stage and is encouraging people who live and work in the area to share their opinions at a public meeting at Makwendam Public School next Tuesday.

“So we do anticipate development at our aging retail plazas, but what it looks like we have to shape and make sure that it is in keeping with the community and council’s vision,” said Ward. “So again, I really encourage people to get out to that meeting on April 22.”

The mayor also says city council will be voting Tuesday on a community improvement plan related to affordable housing.

“The council is very aware and concerned, like the community is about the need for affordable housing and tomorrow a council will be discussing ways that we can incentivize more affordable units,” said Ward.

More information on the potential development can be found on the City of Burlington’s website.

READ MORE: Liberal Party rolls out plan to revive WW2-era prefabricated housing strategy