Ontario Construction News staff writer
A proposed 275-unit apartment building in Guelph has become the first affordable housing project to move through the city’s new Community Planning Permit System (CPPS), a planning tool designed to speed up approvals and help increase housing supply.
A review of the proposed Janefield Residences development at 233-237 Janefield Avenue was completed in 25 days. The project includes 21 units that would be rented at provincially defined affordable housing rates.
“The Janefield Avenue proposal shows what the Community Planning Permit System was meant to do: encourage affordable housing and meet community needs,” said Krista Walkey, general manager of Planning and Building Services. “With this new planning tool, we can review a project that includes affordable housing quicker.
“That’s good for the developer, because it substantially accelerates municipal approvals which helps reduce costs, and it’s good for the community because it helps ensure affordability is part of future growth.”
The CPPS was approved by city council in April 2025 and applies to the Stone Road/Edinburgh Road growth area. The system combines elements of zoning, site plan approval and minor variance processes into a single review process.
Under the new system, developments that include affordable housing or other community benefits may qualify for additional height and density. The Janefield Avenue proposal would be permitted to reach 14 storeys instead of the previously allowed 10 storeys because it includes affordable units.
The proposed development includes:
- 275 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments
- 21 affordable housing units
- 273 vehicle parking spaces
- 303 bicycle parking spaces
Because of the CPPS, the review to be completed within the required 45-day timeline, compared with the approximately 150 days typically required for a zoning bylaw amendment and site plan application.
The shorter approval timeline is supported by a more detailed review process before applications are submitted, helping ensure projects are ready to move forward while maintaining planning standards.
“We are proud to bring forward a thoughtfully designed residential development that will help address Guelph’s growing need for housing,” said Daniel Esfandiari of Group Five, the developer behind the proposal. “Janefield Residences reflects our commitment to delivering new homes that meet the needs of current and future residents while fitting within the surrounding neighbourhood.”
Esfandiari said the project team worked with consultants, project partners and city staff to create a proposal that supports growth while adding community benefits such as affordable housing.
The project will now move through the next stages of approval, including clearing outstanding conditions, obtaining a Community Planning Permit and applying for a building permit before construction can begin.
