In a ward that’s home to downtown North York and where new condominium projects are the norm, it’s not every day proposals are labeled significant or cause two decades of community debate.

Two major developments, which Ward 23 (Willowdale) Councillor John Filion called the most significant to come to the heart of North York in 10 years, are going ahead in the Yonge Street and Sheppard Avenue area.

The first project, known as the Hullmark Centre, will see three linked office, residential and retail buildings, including a Whole Foods market, built at the southeast corner of Yonge Street and Sheppard Avenue.

Construction on the 45-, 35- and five-storey buildings is expected to begin this summer.

The second project will see developer Menkes build two 42-storey condo towers containing 832 units and a five-storey building containing 11 townhouse units at the northwest corner of Yonge Street and Park Home Avenue.

Debate over the site dates back at least 20 years, including a public campaign to save the Rose Garden.

A developer and the city agreed to move the garden to the west part of the site under a 99-year lease, which included a parking garage underneath.

For the full ward profile, read the story HERE.

Education – Highest level completed by age group
Age 15 to 24	Age 25 to 64
Total Population (20% sample data) = 11,420	Total Population (20% sample data) = 47,130
Age 65 and over	LEGEND
Total Population (20% sample data) = 11,225