Cool reaction to convent compromise idea

A compromise proposal for the future of the old Sisters of the Visitation Convent isn't sitting well with residents and the developer who are at odds over a plan to develop the site.

City officials, community members and officials from Ashcroft Homes met at a nearby high school on Thursday night to discuss the future of the 135-year-old building on Richmond Road.

The compromise, proposed by city officials at the meeting, would have seen the developer build condos around the convent. The city would take over control of the convent itself, developing it in consultation with the community.

"The sense in the room, most of the people in the room do not like this proposed compromise," said Lorne Cutler, president of Hampton-Iona Community Group.

One resident described the compromise as an insult to the community, sparking loud applause from those gathered in the auditorium.

Representatives from Ashcroft Homes were also cool to the city's idea.

Ashcroft Homes purchased the convent site last year. The developer wants to renovate the building, surround it with a courtyard, and construct several new buildings including two condominium towers and a residence for seniors. The plan also involves retail and commercial space.

People living in the area have complained about the height of the condo buildings, the potential traffic increase in the area, and a plan to build a road through green space.

The city, the ward councillor and the developer are trying to negotiate an agreement on the project, after the city's planning committee invoked a rarely-used section of the Municipal Act.

The group has until Nov. 16 to come up with a deal. The matter will then go before city council for a vote.