City Council Update

A developer wants to build an 11-storey tower right at the ravine's edge at Kingston Rd. and Beech, with insufficient setback from the slope.

This development would: 

• Remove mature trees essential for slope stability and wildlife habitat 

• Undermine Toronto’s Ravine Strategy and climate goals 

• Set a dangerous precedent rezoning ravine-adjacent lands

This site is unique because the ravine’s shelf is narrow and the slope is steep, leading to a spring-fed creek. The Glen Stewart Ravine is a designated Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA). It is one of the last remnants of the Carolinian forest in Toronto and is home to more than 800 species of plants, insects and animals, some of which are endangered and rare in the city. It is also a critical resting spot for migratory birds. Building on this site and removing mature trees will threaten the integrity of this ravine and its slope.

We are asking Council to uphold the Official Plan policies that already exist, as any deviation would be offering this developer preferential treatment while weakening environmental and climate protections.

We are appealing to all members of Council to help save this precious and vital ecosystem before it’s too late. The city needs housing, and Kingston Road is a candidate under the 2024 Mid Rise Avenues study, but this site is not suitable. This specific proposal completely ignores the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s (TRCA) rules, it conflicts with the City’s own Ravine Strategy, and it is not consistent with the City’s latest Official Plan for growth. This decision could also set a precedent that would threaten all of Toronto’s ravines.

The City and our elected officials oppose the proposed 11-storey development—and that’s a good start. However, they have not opposed rezoning the site, which would still allow a large building on the edge of an Environmentally Significant Area (ESA). The hearing is scheduled for April 13, 2026 but the Parties have concluded closed-door mediation, where compromises are made.

📢 Let’s be clear: rezoning this sensitive site is a non-negotiable for our community. Demand a site-specific exemption for the Glen Stewart Ravine! 

🏙️ What is being proposed at 847–855 Kingston Road?

The developer proposes an 11-storey mixed-use building directly beside the Glen Stewart Ravine, a designated Environmentally Significant Area (ESA) and part of Toronto’s Natural Heritage System. The site is currently zoned for low-rise residential use, but the developer is seeking a rezoning to permit a much larger building that would extend into the ravine buffer.

🌿 Why is this a problem?

This development would:

• Remove mature trees and disrupt habitat used by birds, deer, bats, and other wildlife

• Increase slope instability and threaten long-term ravine health

• Set a dangerous precedent by allowing high-density development adjacent to an Environmentally Significant Area.

Both City Planning and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) oppose the current proposal, but our local representatives are silent on rezoning. 

 
⚖️ What is the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) and why does it matter?

The OLT is a provincial body that makes final decisions on land use and zoning disputes. The developer has appealed directly to the OLT, bypassing City Council, meaning the Tribunal will decide the future of this site. 

A Case Management Conference was scheduled for May 14, which determined who can participate in the hearing and how the case will proceed.  While individual community members were granted "Participant Status" meaning they will be kept informed of upcoming hearings and final decision, no community group was granted "Party status", which would mean they could participate in the process.

The City and the developer have decided to mediate behind closed doors - and the community does not have a say in this process or the outcome.  

🗳️ What can I do?

We’re asking all concerned residents to take three key actions:

1. Email our City Councillor (again and again)

This shows elected officials that constituents are watching and expect them to uphold local zoning and environmental protections. It strengthens the City’s position at the OLT and keeps political pressure on. Use our template (at the top of the page👆) and we'll send an email on your behalf. 

2. Share the campaign with 3 friends

We’re stronger together. One of the best ways to protect the ravine is to multiply awareness—especially among local residents, media outlets or other organizations who may not yet know what’s happening.

3. Volunteer or Sign the Petition

Join your community in making a difference. 

💡 Why is community involvement so important?

Because once the ravine is lost, it’s lost. The OLT hearing is our best chance to prevent irreversible harm. Decisions made here will shape development across Toronto’s natural areas.

📬 Why should I email the Councillor again

Your email helps:

• Reinforce that the community is engaged and paying attention

• Strengthen the City's mandate to oppose rezoning in mediation

• Encourage our elected official to push for stronger environmental protections and not compromise on key issues like rezoning, setbacks, and stewardship

• Hold the Councillor to his promise to look into bringing this site into City ownership for the public (and ravine health) good. 

Every message shows political will—and that matters at every stage of the process.

On May 14, 2025, an impressive 82 community members were present at the Ontario Land Tribunal Initial Hearing - thank you for showing up for our ravine! We weren't granted Party status, but we will be looking for a review; stay tuned. 📩 Stay informed, subscribe to our newsletter