WHAT'S GOING ON HERE?

36 BLUE SPRINGS DR.

Site plan drawings are being finalized for a 15-storey apartment complex at 36 Blue Springs Dr. in Waterloo.

JUST THE FACTS

• The Willowells community was created from a former aggregate quarry in the 1970s. The subdivision included the lands currently occupied by Manulife, East Side Mario's and the six condominiums comprising the Willowells community.

• The vacant development site — an area of about two acres with a frontage of approximately 114 metres — is the location of the former Club Willowells amenity building, which was operated by the various condominiums. The land was sold to a developer and the building was demolished.

• Prior to selling the land, Club Willowells secured approval in 2019 to amend the zoning bylaw to restrict the height and density of the new building. At that time, the development proposal consisted of a new apartment building with a six-storey podium and a nine-storey tower containing 182 units (298 bedrooms). According to city staff, the design is now different but still has similar massing, height and density.

• Additional council approvals won't likely be required. Once a building permit has been issued, the owner can proceed with construction.

• The property at 40 Blue Springs Dr. includes the

"Four Wells Lake" and ponds, boardwalks and trails that will retain their current "open space" designation.

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