Spadina Gardens Tenants Worry Over 'Unprecedented' Floating Tower Addition

Residents of Spadina Gardens, an Edwardian apartment building in Toronto’s Annex neighborhood, are voicing concerns over an approved addition that will “float” 10 new stories above their building. The ambitious project aims to retain the original building and avoid tenant relocations, but many worry about safety and the preservation of heritage features during construction. The development is unique, as floating expansions are rarely attempted over century-old structures.

The Spadina Gardens Tenants Association (SGTA), led by longtime resident Charlotte Mickie, is advocating for more transparency and reassurance from developer ProWinko. Concerns focus on potential disruptions, structural stability, and the impact on tenants’ health and safety. Local community groups, like the Annex Residents’ Association, have expressed solidarity, demanding studies on construction impacts and assurances that sunlight and ventilation will remain unaffected.

Toronto’s City Council approved the zoning application despite tenants’ anxieties. However, Councilor Dianne Saxe supported a motion for ongoing consultation between the developer and tenants during later approval stages. This motion aims to address residents’ worries about construction management, noise, and other impacts.

Although Council emphasized the project’s innovative nature, residents remain cautious. Mickie acknowledged potential benefits but urged diligence throughout the construction process, given the unique challenge of building over a heritage site.