We shared in our last update that our plans for Union Park Kingston (the former Prison for Women property) were approved by Kingston city council on Nov. 1, 2022.
That approval was subject to a 30-day window for any potential Ontario Land Tribunal appeal of our plans, and ultimately one appeal was filed by an immediate neighbour. However, we are very pleased to report that we were able to work through their concerns in a positive and responsive manner to both parties’ mutual satisfaction. We are also able to share this letter confirming the withdrawal of the appeal and that there are no other active appeals. This means our project has been cleared to move forward.
Block 3
Due to overall challenges in the current economic climate, Signature Retirement Living has decided not to proceed with their planned retirement residence at Union Park Kingston. We have very much enjoyed working with the Signature Retirement Living team and wish them well on all future projects. We are now seeking out other retirement home operators and residential options, based on the same built form, height, and existing zoning, for Block 3. We will share updates as these plans evolve.
Signature also asked us to share this update with the Kingston community:
“Signature Retirement Living have worked in Kingston for the past 10+ years with the community, elected officials, City staff, and being an employer in Kingston is something that we value and cherish. Signature Retirement Living are excited for the Union Park development with the recent Official Plan and Zoning approvals that have been granted for the property. Unfortunately, due to several external factors facing property development, namely increased interest costs and construction costs, we have withdrawn from the Union Park redevelopment. This has been a very challenging decision given the significant opportunities for the property in the years ahead. We wish Siderius and the entire development every success moving forward.”
Next Steps
We anticipate some construction work could begin later this year including remediation of the site and demolition work related to non-heritage aspects of the former prison building. In the near future, we plan to share the final version of the Heritage Easement Agreement which will provide an overview of how we will be maintaining the heritage features of the property.
Those interested in living in one of the 24 residential condominium units in the restored heritage building and seeking more information are encouraged to email us at info@unionparkkingston.ca or complete our Contact Us form. To stay informed about ongoing updates, please sign up to our mailing list.
Having achieved these major milestones, we look forward to moving forward with the next stage of the project.