Quote:
Originally Posted by monkeybongo
Personally, I don't see the historic architectural value of a gas station especially at this location. It's like preserving Ottawa's first parking lot.  |
This decision wasn't ever really about the heritage of this property (conspiracy theory alert!). This decision was meant to designate an unimportant building as heritage simply due to aesthetics to stop development of this site. I could understand if this were the first gas station to ever be built in Ottawa, but as this is simply a gas station from 80 years ago, and was a part of a chain, it's not as important historically as something like Laurier House or Booth House.
This area could really use development because it's a desert for shoppers and pedestrians (and you can include cyclists, as this section isn't very safe). For around 6 blocks from Western to Tweedsmuir there are few businesses worth visiting (other than the Superstore). It was mostly
large lawns or
gas stations, vacant lots, concrete walls. Development in this area would mean more people residing in the neighbourhood and more businesses that would connect Westboro to West Wellington's commercial main street.
However, if they are trying to prevent development of this site, then they could consider a density transfer to the other corners. Allow 12 stories instead of the 9 this gateway intersection is supposed to have according to the CDP certain councillors and community associations want developers to strictly adhere to. Of course, this means the city would have to change their position on Mizrahi's building to allow this.
Another option I've thought about is whether the city would consider moving this gas station and some others that are a bit more interesting to a location along the Ottawa River. People want restaurants and washrooms to stop at while they use the MUP. Some locations have parking already that allow others to come by car. The city could take these buildings and move them to the river. This gas station could be moved down Island Park Drive to
beside the Champlain Bridge even.
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