Toronto Foreshore Masterplan & Mixed-Use Development
PHASE 3 ENGAGEMENT OUTCOMES REPORT PREPARED BY JOC CONSULTING 5 September 2019
CONTENTS Introduction Executive Summary Feedback on Principles Feedback on Design Ideas Feedback on Mixed-Use Development Conclusion
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1. INTRODUCTION The Phase Three engagement activities asked for community feedback on the draft principles and design ideas prepared as part of the Toronto Foreshore Masterplan project. In total, 337 community members were involved through workshop sessions (2), pop-ups (4) and the online survey. The Phase Three engagement activities focused on principles and design ideas that were informed by earlier engagement and foreshore analysis undertaken by the project team. This engagement did not seek feedback on the proposed Mixed-Use Development (Bath Street). However, comments raised by the community regarding Bath Street have been included in this report as a comprehensive analysis of what the consultants heard during the engagement period. ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES The following table outlines the engagement activities (face to face and online) undertaken during Phase 3.
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Workshops 1. 6 August, 6-8pm 2. 10 August 10am12pm
93 participants across the two workshops.
PARTICIPATION DETAILS ●
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Popups 1. 6 August, 11am-1pm 2. 6 August, 2-4pm 3. 10 August, 1-3pm 4. 10 August, 3-5:30pm
68 participants across the four pop-ups.
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A mix of genders and generally older participants with no participants under 30 years of age present at either workshop. General support for the Masterplan principles and design ideas. Brainstorming of additional design ideas for further investigation by project team. The majority of participants were against the proposed Bath Street Development. A mix of genders and ages including school students, workers, visitors and retirees. A wide range of opinions were expressed in relation to the Bath Street Development with more positive comments recorded on 6 August than 10 August.
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Online Survey from 25 July to 11 August
176 completions of the online survey. 1300 site visits.
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TOTAL
More females (95) than males (58) completed the online survey. 53% of respondents were aged over 60 years old, 33% were aged between 40 and 60 years old, and 14% were under 40 years old. 65 respondents identified as being from Toronto with others being from nearby suburbs including Coal Point, Kilaben Bay, Blackalls Park. 42% of residents were satisfied with the project’s engagement to date, 28% felt neutral and 30% were unsatisfied. Of the people aged over 60 years old there were slightly more satisfied (16%) with engagement to date than unsatisfied (14%). The majority of respondents who voted neutral or unsatisfied with the engagement process referenced a lack of engagement around the proposed Bath Street Development as their reason for voting.
337 participants
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2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The majority of participants support the masterplan engagement process, principles and design ideas. However, the majority of participants also raised issues associated with the proposed Mixed-Use Development site at Bath Street. Key insights ●
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Participants: 337 community members participated in the Phase 3 engagement. While the popups attracted a wide range of age groups, participants at the workshops and online survey were older in age with 53% of online survey participants being 60 years or older. Of this group, 16% of online survey respondents were satisfied with engagement to date compared to 14% who were unsatisfied (largely due to issues concerning the Mixed-Use Development). Principles: 77% of online survey respondents are happy or very happy with the draft principles. This support was reaffirmed during the face to face engagement (workshops and pop-ups). Community feedback has been received on the phrasing and consideration for safety, improvements to the natural environment, access and regional connections. Design ideas: 73% of online survey respondents are happy or very happy with the draft design ideas. The most popular design idea through face to face engagement was ‘Improved Connections’ while respondents who completed the online survey identified ‘Celebrating the lookout and improving the terraces’ as their most popular design idea. While there is strong support for expanding the playground and unlocking park space there are also some mixed messages concerning capacity, loss of existing spaces and cost that require further investigation for these specific design ideas. Overall, the community are most supportive of design ideas that promote uninterrupted public access to the foreshore for people of all ages and abilities. Mixed-Use Development: The majority of face to face participants are against the proposed Mixed-Use Development at Bath Street. Many online survey respondents also included their concerns in the comments section of the survey despite there being no Mixed-Use Development question. Across all engagement activities, participants raised concerns relating to the planning, design and use of the proposed Mixed-Use Development.
Feedback on the Principles What did the community like? Participants are supportive of the Masterplan principles and feel they reflect community values and aspirations. What needs improving? There was little feedback on improvements to the proposed design principles, however, participants do want the principles to more strongly consider safety and regional connections. What is missing? Participants want to see Aboriginal heritage and culture celebrated as an intrinsic part of the foreshore and the use of natural materials as a way to improve access and the health of the natural environment.
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Feedback on the Design Ideas What did the community like? The most popular ideas identified in the online survey were: 1. Celebrating the lookout and improving the terraces 2. Celebrating the water's edge 3. Enhance the town green
The most popular ideas identified during the face to face engagement were: 1. Celebrating the lookout and improving the terraces 2. Improved connections 3. Unlocking park space
What needs improving? The community have suggested the wording of the following principles be improved: ● Unlocking Park Space - rewording to be clear on the type of ‘park’ (green space or car-parking). ● Expanding the Playground - rewording to better communicate look and feel of playground space. There were divergent opinions on the need, challenges and opportunities for expanding the playground. What is missing? The community are adamant public safety must be at the forefront of all design ideas. Provisions for supporting the longevity and improving the functions of the Amateur Sailing Club - especially for people with disability and general sailing activities should also be considered.
Feedback on the Mixed-Use Development What did we hear? Overall, participants do not support the Mixed-Use Development (Bath Street). The participants reference the proposed height, massing and anticipated ‘exclusive, private spaces’ of the development as being inconsistent with heritage and character of Toronto and the draft Masterplan principles and design ideas. The workshops and online survey captured participant’s discomfort with the exclusion of the Bath Street site from the Foreshore Masterplan. Many participants felt it should be acknowledged as it is an essential part of the foreshore that’s currently under investigation. 30% of online survey respondents are unsatisfied with the engagement process to date. They make mention of a ‘growing distrust and suspicion’ towards Council due to the lack of information available on the Bath Street development and suggest better communication methods (i.e. leaflets, letter box drops, radio, traditional and social media) should be considered for future engagement activities. What did the community like? A number of participants across the workshops, popups and online survey expressed the benefits of development as an opportunity for improved economics, the provision of community space and in support of local tourism. What needs improving? Participants have identified the following concerns and considerations in relation to the development of the Mixed-Use Development:
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Potential privatisation of open space at the Foreshore. Public access to foreshore and open space - loss of future greenspace and uninterrupted foreshore access. Increase in congestion, traffic and parking difficulties as a result of the Mixed-Use Development. Loss of connectivity along the Foreshore. Any height of the Mixed-Use Development was seen by participants as impacting on view loss, character and overshadowing. Sufficient development setbacks (minimum 10m) to allow for good accessibility and connectivity to the foreshore. A cafe, restaurant or community space on the ground floor of the Mixed-Use Development. A cycling hub as part of the Mixed-Use development. Building materials (facade) that is sympathetic to the character and Foreshore location.
What is missing? Participants identified the following areas as being missing from the Phase 3 Engagement: ● Transparent and open community engagement and communication in relation to the Mixed-Use Development. ● The inclusion of the Mixed-Use Development in the Foreshore Masterplan. ● A clear connection between the Mixed-Use development and the Toronto Town Centre. ● Details on the interface or public space provision around the Mixed-Use Development ● Details on the planning and design of the Mixed-Use Development
Areas for further investigation and engagement In relation to the principles and design ideas, the Phase 3 engagement has highlighted the following areas as portraying mixed messages or requiring further investigation:
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Location and upgrade of Amateur Sailing Club building - Mixed responses on moving the Sailing Club with multiple options shared, including upgrading the existing building, relocating to a new location (both southern and northern ends of the Foreshore), moving back from current position (into mound) or out onto the water. Location of two cottages on the Foreshore - Mixed responses for moving the cottages with more support to keep the cottages from online surveys than face to face engagement methods. Activation of water and waters edge - Mixed responses to activating the water with conflicting needs between ecology/lake health and active recreation uses. Connection to wider regional network - Extending the study area to consider the wider regional context of the Foreshore including connectivity with the green infrastructure network including Stoney Creek for recreation and biodiversity . For example, a viewing platform at the swamp that connects to the Foreshore to create more 'local tourist offerings'.
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3. FEEDBACK ON THE PRINCIPLES Community support for the masterplan principles is strong with 77% of online survey respondents being happy or very happy with the draft principles. This support was further reinforced through face to face engagement. On review of all engagement activities, there are very few amendments to the principles. WHAT ARE PRINCIPLES? Principles are a conduit between the vision, detailed design ideas and implementation of the Masterplan. Principles must be capable of being effectively expressed in the Masterplan so that, when implemented, they result in those principles (and by extension, the vision) being achieved. The draft Toronto Foreshore Masterplan principles presented to the community as part of the Phase 3 Engagement were; Improve Lake health and ecology
Create a Foreshore for rest, play and celebration
Provide an accessible waterfront
Protect the Foreshore’s unique character and history
*Online survey data
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FEEDBACK ON THE PRINCIPLES The following table provides a summary of the most recurring feedback relating to principles and captured across all engagement activities. While participant feedback at the workshops and pop-ups was brief compared to detailed comments in the online survey, the majority of responses were positive and supportive of the principles. What did the community like?
Principle 1 Create a foreshore for rest, play & celebration.
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Better recreational facilities and uses across the Foreshore. Participants want to see the Foreshore ‘brought to life’ and busy during the day and at night. Public space and activity should be free and inclusive.
Additional ideas from the community ●
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The majority of face to face participants commented on the need to connect with the wider Lake walkway, cycleway, transport network. 18% of online survey comments expressed the need to have a connected walkway/cycleway.
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21% of online survey comments reported wanting recreational spaces such as an amphitheatre for live music events and markets. 16% of online survey comments expressed wanting spaces to be inclusive of all ages, mobility and socioeconomic status, as well as promoting Aboriginal culture and health/fitness/wellbeing for the community. 14% of online survey comments want increased family friendly recreational spaces for all ages such as playgrounds, skate parks, and picnic area. Celebrate Aboriginal culture & local history. Ensure inclusive spaces and activities for young people. Ensure events leave the Foreshore cleaner. A well maintained foreshore. Ensure the Foreshore is a safe place for everyone at different times of the day and night Improve parking. 12% of online survey comments expressed wanting to have better access and supply of recreational and rest areas for all ages. Ideas included playgrounds, picnic areas, BBQ’s, skatepark and lighting. Cycling connections along waterfront and to wider network.
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Principle 3 Protect the Foreshore's unique character and history.
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Principle 4 Improve lake health & ecology.
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Improved connectivity along the Foreshore including a continuous path. Improved access to the water’s edge. Maintaining the multi-use aspect of the waterfront, honouring the long history of the lake as a working-lake. A desire to minimise the use of concrete, and favour natural building materials was further echoed throughout the comments in all Design Principles, and the majority of Design Ideas.
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87% of face to face participants found this to be “Very Appealing” - the highest of any Idea or Principle presented. Expanding the historical element of Toronto (and supporting upgrade of features at Train Station). Opportunities for both Aboriginal and European heritage to be expressed and celebrated along the waterfront - 28% of face to face participants made comments specifically relating to celebrating indigenous history. Promotion and protection of the lake as a key part of the community identity. 43% of online survey comments expressed that preserving heritage including buildings and the natural environment is important.
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69% of online survey comments reported protecting the lake health and environment was important as it is a primary asset of Toronto for current and future generations.
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Connectivity beyond the Masterplan study area and to other suburbs. Better access for all ages and abilities but also vehicle and boating uses and services. Use of hardwearing and durable materials, with support for using natural materials. A natural waters edge where possible along the Foreshore (rather than sea wall or concrete).
A need for more Aboriginal representation throughout the foreshore area. Protection for natural elements of the foreshore, including trees. Explore opportunities to work with local organisations (i.e. Historical Society, Landcare, Rotary, Sustainable groups etc) to help improve the Foreshore and maximise investment, and develop a sense of ownership. Preserve green space.
Use more natural materials and protect the natural waters edge. Incorporate elements relating to urban tree canopy and support the Foreshore as a wildlife corridor.
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Rehabilitate and restore vegetated areas along the Foreshore.
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Removal of weeds across the Foreshore (land and water).
SELECT QUOTES “The lake is the greatest asset we have, collectively owned by everyone.” - Online Survey Comment “Toronto’s unique point of difference as a town is its deep connection with the Lake and the bushland which connects it to the Watagans. No other town in Lake Mac has immediate access to both blue and green landscapes.” - Online Survey Comment “When we have events on the waterfront in Toronto, the whole place has a ‘buzz’ about it which is something to be encouraged. Any initiative to increase the capacity for events are to be welcome as long as the associated infrastructure required is there to support the increased activity.” - Online Survey Comment
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4. FEEDBACK ON THE DESIGN IDEAS Overall, participants responded positively to the design ideas with the majority in support of their continued investigation and refinement. Two design ideas received mixed responses; unlocking park space and expanding the playground, positioning them as the lower rated design ideas. WHAT ARE DESIGN IDEAS? Design ideas are place-based and responsive to context. They have been informed by community feedback and further investigated and refined by the design team. The design ideas are a set of practical opportunities that will help improve spaces along the Foreshore, and combined, will contribute to the improvement of the Foreshore, making it an even better place for the people of Toronto. The Masterplan principles will be realised through their delivery. The following design ideas were presented to the community for their feedback during Phase 3 engagement: ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Celebrating the lookout and improving the terraces Celebrating the water’s edge Enhance the town green Improved connections Improving Victory Parade Expanding the Playground Unlocking park space.
*Online survey data
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DESIGN IDEA 1 Improved Connections WHY? To unify the foreshore and provide pedestrian connections from Town Centre to Lake. SUMMARY ●
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Improved connections was the second most popular Design Idea with face to face participants. Participants support a more pedestrianfriendly environment with slower traffic, easier connections and better footpaths along the Foreshore. Cycling connections and infrastructure was very popular among all age groups and seen as a tourism generator. Continuous path along the Foreshore was also strongly supported by the community but not at the risk of degradation of the natural environment. Better access for people of all ages and abilities is highly supported.
WHAT DID THE COMMUNITY LIKE? ●
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37% of online survey comments expressed having a connected walkway was important and needed to incorporate inclusive access for prams, disability, aged and also needed to have safe pedestrian measures from the road. The existing rail line was seen by participants as an important piece of infrastructure that could be revitalised and used for transport.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT TO THE DESIGN IDEA? ●
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28% of face to face participants suggested the inclusion of a comprehensive cycleway. Further, 31% of online survey comments expressed wanting to have walkways/cycleways as these spaces promote community health and wellbeing. The top three transport mode and type suggested by face to face participants were walkways/cycleways, increased parking, and more reliable and regular public transport. Reinforce walking/cycling connections. Improved and prioritised public transport (buses and light rail on old tracks). Easier access to event space (both land and water). Increase trailer parking and boat ramp access.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS
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The most popular additional ideas shared by participants in relation to improved connections include: ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Having a path over the water to extend green space along the Foreshore like in Eleebana. Cycling hub at the Foreshore connected to 'world class' regional cycling infrastructure. Cycleways/walkways to connect to other suburbs. Better lighting to improve night visibility and perceptions of safety. Natural materials for pathways. Reinstate the Ferry service that previously brought visitors from wider Lake Macquarie. Reviving Tram links that have serviced the area in the past, to accomodate train travellers from Sydney and Newcastle.
SELECT QUOTES “The walkways need to be completed so that full access to pedestrians and those with mobility problems is available right across the Jetty (near the former Hire Craft Marine) and to Victory Parade, the Old Railway Station and The Boulevarde.” - Online Survey Comment
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DESIGN IDEA 2 Unlocking Park Space WHY? Removing barriers can expand park space and improve accessibility to the foreshore. SUMMARY ●
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While there was strong support for unlocking park space there was also confusion relating to its title, and if it was referencing car-parking space or open park space. 28% of online survey comments are against moving the Amateur Sailing Club while 11% are in support. Those respondents who are against moving the club cite history, services (particularly for people with disability) and also suspicion council would not rebuild the club as primary reasons. Many respondents however (including face to face engagement) did state the Club should be improved and renovated. Online respondents mentioned a preference for the Bath Street area to be new open space when responding to this design idea. Mixed messages on rigging and boat access, moving the rotunda and houses indicate further engagement is required.
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11% of online survey comments agreed with moving the sailing club. Most of these respondents felt the club should move to an accessible point along the foreshore to increase yachting and sailing in the area. Recognising and elevating the importance of the Amateur Sailing Club (and supporting partners like Sailability). Open space and views to and from the water is important to participant. The online survey had mixed responses to the cottage buildings being moved with some respondents sharing ideas for their continued activation including a restaurant, wedding venue and cafe.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT TO THE DESIGN IDEA? ●
Emphasis on the upgrading of the Amateur Sailing Club.
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Consideration for parking and traffic implications (vehicle and boating) at either end of the foreshore and activity hubs.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS The most popular additional ideas shared by participants in relation to unlocking park space include: ● Goffet Park; ○ Seen as an important link to the Foreshore and having environmental value with established bushland that should be preserved. ○ Extending parking space due to popularity of use by visitors, residents and employees of surrounding units and nearby businesses. Parking time limits could be investigated particularly during peak season. ○ Repurposing as a playground. ● Repurposing and activating the Train Station such as a cafe and playground on track of station. ● Cafe/restaurant at the Amateur Sailing Club. ● Community spaces for local organisations and groups to hire at the Amateur Sailing Club.
SELECT QUOTES “The Sailing Club is part of that heritage along the foreshore and a valuable place for people to enjoy the lake.” - Online Survey Response
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DESIGN IDEA 3 Expanding the Playground WHY? The current playground does not cater to all ages and is located away from the cafe and toilets. It is also located close to the Brighton Avenue street edge. It could be expanded and upgraded. SUMMARY ●
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While support for expanding the playground was strong, the sentiment of expanding the playground was mixed across engagement activities. While most participants were happy with this design idea, some are less supportive due to fears of losing open space and trees, as well as, potential foreshore cluttering. At the popups, participants without or no longer having young families were less likely to find this design idea more appealing. A point of unity across all comments, is that ‘play’ equipment should accommodate all ages.
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54% of online survey comments expressed increasing the playground to suit all ages options was important. Any upgrade to the playground should consider nature and water play. The playground needs to be better integrated into the Foreshore assets and destinations.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT TO THE DESIGN IDEA? ● ● ● ●
No loss to green and open space. Co-location of amenities including toilets (upgrade) and shade. Creating an all ages play space that caters for a larger group of young children. Traffic safety barriers to protect young children.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS The most popular additional ideas shared by participants in relation to expanding the playground include: ● Informal nature play integrated into the foreshore would allow for an expansion without a reduction in green space/nature.
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The inclusion of water play given proximity to the lake. Integrate the Foreshore with playground. Disperse the play spaces across the foreshore with potential for two different playgrounds at each end of the foreshore. Consider ‘play’ equipment for all ages (i.e. playgrounds, skate parks, exercise equipment).
SELECT QUOTES “It’s good for the kids to have somewhere to go and play. The current area is very tiny and only caters to a limited young age group. Older kids need an area to burn their energy as well.” - Online Survey Comment
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DESIGN IDEA 4 Enhance the Town Green WHY? To reinforce and enhance the town centre’s green heart for the Toronto community. SUMMARY ●
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Overall, this design idea received less comments than others, but a passionate response, with 80% of face-to-face participants finding this idea “very appealing” Comments suggest participants do not consider this idea a priority. There is a variety of opinions regarding the rotunda upgrade or relocation. Participants support the need for landscaping to improve and de-clutter the foreshore. More amenities to allow for better use was important to many. Participants strongly support ensuring the space is accessible to all ages and abilities.
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SELECT QUOTES “Provide a central space for community events and activities that supports daily use and special events such as festivals and performances.” - Online Survey Comment
30% of online survey comments expressed value in the town green creating opportunities for large scale community events such as festivals and markets. Enhancing views (and view shaft) to the Lake. Open space for events.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT TO THE DESIGN IDEA? ●
Amenities for events (i.e. shade, shelter and toilets).
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Consider materials that would keep maintenance costs down for the rotunda and foreshore assets.
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Shade to cool the foreshore, particularly during summer.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS The most popular additional ideas shared by participants in relation to enhance the town green include: ● Remove the existing sea wall in between the baths & sailing club. ● Include an amphitheatre to watch events.
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DESIGN IDEA 5 Celebrating the lookout and improving the terraces WHY? Physical and visual connections from Victory Ridge to the Lake are important and should be preserved and enhanced, with improved access and more gathering spaces throughout the terraces. SUMMARY ●
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Celebrating the lookout and improving terraces was the most popular design idea across all engagement activities. Additional participant ideas within this space focused on activating the Train Station and surrounding spaces. 18% of face to face comments related to these areas feeling unsafe and lacking accessibility.
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Recognising heritage in particular 17% of online survey comments expressed wanting the Train Station building to be refurbished to include spaces such as a cafe, restaurant, live music, wine bar, or museum.
SELECT QUOTES “Maybe one or two heritage rail carriages could be parked at the station and used as a cafe.” - Online Survey Comment
Keeping and restoring the natural vegetation. Considering the use of the rail line as cycling infrastructure.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT TO THE DESIGN IDEA? ● ● ● ●
Protecting the view down the Boulevard to the lake. Safety and activation/use of Train Station. Consideration for access through and across the terraces. Disabled access and amenities.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS The most popular additional ideas shared by participants in relation to celebrating the lookout and improving the terraces include: ● Create spaces that educate visitors on local Indigenous heritage. ● Collaborate with Landcare to keep bush and native wildlife. ● Repurpose the station as a cafe or art gallery (Cafe/restaurant at station (Coffee Pot Tram). ● Collaboration with OCCI (Lake Macquarie Sustainability Group) and Landcare.
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DESIGN IDEA 6 Improving Victory Parade WHY? Celebrate and improve Victory Parade as the gateway to the Lake from the town centre. SUMMARY ●
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Although the majority of participants were in favour of this broad design idea of improving Victory Parade, the only consistent comment was the need for additional parking, expressed in over 50% of face to face comments. Participants shared a concern for congestion and management of public transport (buses). Parking is especially important during large lakeside events such as sailing competitions/meets.
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Responding to issues of safety Considering parking as a matter of importance. 11% of online survey comments expressed wanting walkways to improve in connection, surfacing and trees to provide shade.
SELECT QUOTES “Victory Parade is an important gateway to Toronto, so increased parking balanced by more trees and pathways would improve this.” - Online Survey Comment
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT TO THE DESIGN IDEA? ● ● ● ●
Considerations for heritage buildings not in the study area (including the Hotel). Improved and extended boat trailer parking. Trees and landscaping along Victory Parade. Increase parking along Victory Parade.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS The most popular additional ideas shared by participants in relation to Improving Victory Parade include: ● 23% of online survey comments expressed wanting to increase parking. ○ Comments collected through face to face engagement want to increase parking but in a manner that does not impact character, possibly located further back from Victoria Parade/Foreshore. ● Maintain and consider the heritage of surrounding buildings and Hotel.
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DESIGN IDEA 7 Celebrating the waters edge WHY? The Lake is integral to Toronto’s identity, and a wonderful shared resource. SUMMARY ●
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Celebrating the waters edge rated the second highest across face to face engagements, with majority of participants finding it “Appealing”/”Very Appealing”. This Idea was met with a lot of enthusiasm, with participants providing 17% more comments and ideas than on any other Design Idea or Principle. It is evident that the community wishes to physically engage with the water’s edge, with most comments relating to revitalising the baths, and including water activities facilities. There is support for improved landscaping using native elements across the Foreshore to help celebrate Toronto's unique character and history, as well as support the lakeside ecology. Participants are keen to “showcase the waterfront” and celebrate it as a key part of Toronto’s identity.
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Opportunities for water activities with the five highest comment themes all relating to being able to access the water for swimming, kayaking, fishing, or play. 13% of online survey comments expressed wanting to have an increase in diverse recreational water activities such as paddle board, kayak and jet ski hire; and also sailing and boating. Reinforcing natural elements along the waters edge.
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT? ● ● ● ●
12% of online survey comments expressed the need to improve facilities in the area including toilets, lighting and parking in order to adequately access the area. 9% of online survey comments expressed wanting the maintenance of the lake baths to improve. Activities for teens/kids and teenagers. Opportunities for Aboriginal heritage and culture.
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Events including markets. Revitalise the current baths. Water play (kayaking, boating, swimming etc). Improve amenities. Consideration of hazards such as razor clams in design.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS The most popular additional ideas shared by participants in relation to celebrating the waters edge include: ● Opportunities to increase water play such Kayaking, boating and swimming with safety prioritised (like netting/improving swimming areas). ● Amphitheatre. ● Embracing Aboriginal culture and history. ● More events and event spaces. ● Inclusive spaces and for young people . ● Better and more regular programming at the Foreshore and spaces that can accommodate these event logistics/needs (such as NAIDOC, markets and competitions). ● A new (or re-establishing) ferry stop. ● Pontoons for kids to swim out to.
SELECT QUOTES “Provide more ways for small boats, canoes, kayaks and sailing boats to pull up on the waterfront.” - Online Survey Comment
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5. FEEDBACK ON THE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT Participants have commented on the proposed Mixed-Use Development (Bath Street) across all engagement activities. While engagement did not seek feedback on the proposed Mixed-Use Development, participants considered it one of the same with the foreshore masterplan. In addition to the Executive Summary, the notes below provide a summary of concerns and design ideas relating to the Mixed-Use Development. Despite the engagement activities not asking for direct feedback on the Bath Street development, it has received the most comments overall. The face to face data has captured 42 separate objections to the Mixed Used Development (in comparison, the second highest area for comment was in reference to the Railway Station and its revitalisation with 13 comments). Further, objections to Bath Street made up the majority of comments across all questions of the online survey. Participants described the Bath Street development as the “10% missing from the Masterplan”. CONCERNS AND ISSUES ASSOCIATED WITH THE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT A summary of participant concerns and issues in relation to the Mixed-Use Development: ● Lack of consultation with community and stakeholders. ● Traffic, congestion and parking for local residents, Town Centre workers, Royal Motor Yacht Club and during events. ● Loss of public space and privatised space on the foreshore. ● Unguaranteed access to foreshore (gathering/meeting places, walking, cycling, water-based activities) outside the proposed building. ● Poor connection and access to other areas of Town Centre. ● Building height and view loss. ● Potential for buildings to create wind funnelling and cause local environmental damage. ● Compromising the cultural heritage of the foreshore. ● Housing for tourists rather than responding to local housing affordability issue. ● Longevity of the building given rising sea levels. ● Extending LEP provisions could set an undesirable precedent - especially without adequate community consultation. ● Lack of space for young people to access and enjoy the foreshore and surrounds. ● Interruption of migratory birds (flight path for Egrets) at Toronto swamp. ● Child safety due to increased traffic. ● Ageing infrastructure and future capacity issues (i.e. water, sewerage, electricity). ● Emergency access during events.
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6. CONCLUSION Overall, participants were supportive of the principles and design ideas for the Toronto Foreshore. Participants were supportive of principles and design ideas that preserved and celebrated the foreshore ecology, Toronto’s heritage and lakeside village identity. Congruent with this, was the common desire to maintain the foreshore as a publicly accessible space. The proposed Mixed-Use Development at Bath Street was a point of significant contention despite it not being the focus of the engagement activities. The majority of participants who raised Bath Street wish to keep the area as open public space and consider residential or commercial development on this site as being at odds with the draft Masterplan principles and historic use of the land. It is clear that residents and visitors of the Toronto Foreshore have strong opinions, ideas and feelings towards the Toronto Foreshore Masterplan and Mixed-Use Development project and are committed to being involved in the process. They are passionate about their foreshore and creating a place for ‘future generations’. As such, it is recommended that the community be kept well informed of the Toronto Foreshore Masterplan process, that these engagement findings be shared with the community and that upcoming engagement opportunities are well communicated and publicised across the local area.
NEXT STEPS The next steps for the Toronto Foreshore Masterplan are as follows
Phase 1 Ideas and Opportunities
Phase 2 Feedback on Foreshore Analysis
Phase 3 Draft Foreshore Masterplan Options
Phase 4 and 5 Refinement of Masterplan
Phase 6 Public exhibition of Foreshore Masterplan
The refinement of the masterplan is now underway comprising of check-ins with key stakeholders over the coming months prior to public exhibition phase. The community will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the draft Toronto Foreshore Masterplan at public exhibition phase towards the end of the year.
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