On April 15, 2025, the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) issued a final order dismissing Solmar's appeals for 200 John Street East and 588 Charlotte Street, also known locally as Randwood Estate.
The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake was initially made aware of the Ontario Land Tribunal's Decision on the Official Plan Amendment (OPA) and an interim decision on the Zoning By-law Amendment and Plan of Subdivision regarding Randwood Estate on Friday, October 11, 2024.
According to the October Decision, "This site, as designated for residential development in the Town Official Plan (TOP) and through the OPA approved herein, can be developed to add quality housing in NOTL. However, as explained throughout [the] decision, Solmar must resolve many fundamental matters before a draft subdivision plan is considered for approval.” The Tribunal cited that revisions are required to meet the requirements of Section 2 of the Planning Act, matters of provincial interest.
In the Interim Order, the Tribunal ordered Solmar (Niagara 2) Inc. to advise if it intends to pursue the studies and revisions to the proposed development in accordance with the Tribunal's findings within two (2) months of the October 11, 2024, Decision. Solmar challenged this decision, and on January 28, 2025, the OLT dismissed this challenge. This Disposition gave Solmar additional time from the issuance to advise the other parties and the Tribunal whether it intended to pursue the studies and revisions to its proposed development as directed by the Tribunal in its interim Decision.
Solmar advised the Tribunal on April 11, 2025, that they were not prepared to pursue the studies and revisions to its proposed development as identified in the Decision. Therefore, the Tribunal has issued a final order dismissing the appeals. No planning approvals or heritage permits have been granted for the development of these lands or the removal or alteration of any heritage attributes.
Any media inquiries related to this matter should be directed to communications@notl.com. All other inquiries can be addressed to Kirsten McCauley, Director of Community & Development Services, at kirsten.mccauley@notl.com.
The Corporation of the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake
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