Residents are rallying against a developer’s plan for a tall building in Toronto’s gay village, citing concerns over community character and cultural loss.
Toronto: A developer’s plan to build a 48-storey tower where the beloved drag bar Crews & Tangos stands has hit a wall. The local community council just rejected the proposal after hearing from many concerned residents.
Graywood Developments wanted to create a mixed-use building with hundreds of residential units and some retail space. But folks in the neighborhood feel this tower is way too tall and doesn’t fit the vibe of the area.
Crews & Tangos has been a staple in the gay village since the 90s, and many see it as a cultural landmark. At a recent meeting, community members expressed their worries about losing the unique character of their neighborhood.
Councilor Chris Moise, who represents the area, is against the height of the proposed building. He believes the Church-Wellesley neighborhood should maintain its mid-rise charm, which is part of its identity.
Moise pointed out that a previous plan for a 14-storey building was approved, and he thinks that would have been a better fit. The community is anxious about rapid changes and feels like they’re losing their cultural appeal.
There are also concerns about the shadows the new tower might cast on local parks. Moise emphasized the importance of keeping the village a cultural hub, which is vital to the community’s identity.
On the flip side, Graywood argues that the new plan is necessary to address the housing crisis and is committed to preserving the drag bar during construction. They say they want to work with the community to ensure the redevelopment benefits everyone.
Activists and residents are hopeful about the council’s decision. They worry that a tall building could change the community’s fabric and push out long-time residents. The fear is that new, wealthier residents might not share the same values or connection to the queer community.
As the debate continues, many are keeping a close eye on how this situation unfolds. The village has already seen too many beloved spots close down, and they want to protect what’s left.
