In this week’s UTPro Instant Report, we spotlight the area around Aurora's intersection of Yonge and Wellington streets, at the core of one of the original towns in Toronto's northern outskirts. Now thriving in York Region's portion of the suburban belt around the city, urban intensification is beginning to unfold here as in so many other parts of the GTA that have not until now been seen as likely for more density. Specifically, our report takes a look at the area within an 800m radius surrounding 32 Wellington Street East. A 600m walk to Aurora GO station, it's also about a half hour drive south to Langstaff GO station where the new northern terminal station of Yonge Line 1 extension will be, while highways 400 and 404 are a few kilometres to the west and east respectively.

Map view of the area surrounding 32 Wellington Street East, image from UTPro Instant Report

Following last year's upgrades to the intersection by the Town that enhanced safety and sight lines, the neighbourhood is set for significant development, aligning with Aurora's Official Plan that advocates appropriate land intensification.

Our Custom Location Report reveals 9 projects in the pipeline: 7 in pre-construction and 2 under construction, with no recently completed projects noted. The projects, if all are built as planned, will bring 1,380 new dwellings to the area. (It should be noted, that our unit mix count may be low as our tracking is for this area is still new.) With an average height of 14.7m and a maximum of 29.15m, the developments are primarily mid-rise, fitting seamlessly into the existing urban fabric while contributing to the area's vibrancy and diversity.

Summary of proposals for the area surrounding 32 Wellington Street East, image from UTPro Instant Report

Currently under construction at 15186 Yonge Street, Amica Aurora has made steady progress with excavation and sub-grade work since last year. This development will comprise a 7-storey retirement residence and a 2-storey church, designed by Murphy Partners for Succession Development Corporation. Located at the northwest corner of Yonge and Tyler streets, Amica Aurora will offer 154 units, providing new living spaces for seniors while also serving as a community worship centre.

Looking south to the ongoing construction for Amica Aurora, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor DarkSideDenizen

The Shoe Factory is a project in the planning stages located at 120 Metcalfe Street. Designed by Wallman Architects for Atria Development, this mixed-use development will feature two 7-storey and one 8-storey building, alongside three blocks of 3-storey townhouses. With a total of 379 units, The Shoe Factory is set to bring a blend of residential and commercial spaces to the northwest corner of Metcalfe and Berczy streets.

An aerial view of The Shoe Factory, designed by Wallman Architects for Atria Development

The area surrounding Yonge and Wellington streets is witnessing a surge in development interest, with projects ranging beyond residential (including various forms of rental and ownership options) to commercial and institutional spaces. With a total Gross Floor Area (GFA) of 85,160m² so far, and an average Floor Space Index (FSI) of 2.19, these developments are set to significantly contribute to the region's built environment and economic vitality.

GFA breakdown for the area surrounding 32 Wellington Street East, image from UTPro Instant Report

This area is on the brink of intensification and, with more developments getting underway, Aurora is emerging as a new option for town centre living, working, and community engagement.

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As UrbanToronto continues to refine its role in the GTA development industry, our data services have evolved to become one of our defining elements and we want to share those capabilities with our community. The UrbanToronto Pro Instant Reports is just one of the ways our data can be applied to provide quick and convenient insights on the development trends of any area in the GTA, with filters for Wards MLS Zones, and Custom Areas.