Commercial Land Approvals
From due diligence through to concept design, Nethery Planning can support commercial and employment land owners in building the retail and service spaces people need for shopping and work.
Concept design
Due diligence research
Site plan and zoning approvals
Case Study
Markham Sports Centre Minor Variance
Client
Patrick Jabbaz, Can Sports Center
Project Type
Minor variance applications to add accessory uses within an existing health centre
Project Status
Completed
Scope of Work
Preparation of two Minor Variance Applications to expand the range of uses permitted within the existing health centre. The first variance allowed the addition of a small retail store selling sports-related equipment. The second variance permitted a golf simulator as an accessory recreational use. Our team prepared detailed planning opinion letters, coordinated with municipal staff, and presented before the Committee.
Challenges and Solutions
The zoning framework for the Business Park Employment designation limited the range of accessory uses. Nethery Planning demonstrated through planning rationale and precedent that the proposed retail and recreational uses were consistent with Official Plan policy, maintained the intent of the Zoning By-law, and remained subordinate to the site’s primary function.
Outcomes
Both variances were approved, enabling the property to evolve as a modern, multi-use facility within Markham’s Business Park Employment area.
Case Study
Meadowlands Preschool
Project Type
Minor Variance application to expand the capacity of a daycare facility from 75 to 95 children
Project Status
Completed
Scope of Work
Preparation of a Minor Variance request, site sketch, and Planning Justification Report to support the Minor Variance. Our team prepared a presentation to Council which detailed the four tests of a Minor Variance, which was supported by a staff recommendation for approval of the Minor Variance request.
Challenges and Solutions
There were no new designs, developments, or construction proposed as a part of the Minor Variance application, but rather an increase in capacity in the already existing daycare. Many planning applications consider structural changes, but in this case, there was only a change to recognize the existing capacity for expansion and allow for a continuation of the use.
Outcomes
The Minor Variance was granted, with the note that a building permit is required for the alteration to increase the capacity of the existing day care.