In Leaside Life’s November issue the Curious Idler was “surprised” (disturbed? dismayed?) to see a house on Laird (actually, two semi-detached houses) bite the dust, literally. But in case you thought this was another case of a large building in the offing – no – there are approved plans for 68-70 Laird Dr., and they are for two semi-detached three-storey multi-family fourplexes. Here’s the back story.
In April 2023 there was a proposal to construct two-storey rear additions to the existing dwellings. These were approved, but for whatever reason, did not get built. In October 2024, the same owner returned to the Committee of Adjustment with a new proposal for semi-detached multiplexes, which was approved. The Leaside Residents Association raised concerns at the CoA about the wide expanse of parking in front, and wondered why there was no retail, despite the location on Laird Drive – now seen as a “shopping street”?
The other question is whether the original semi-detached residences, now dust, should have been protected as heritage. In fact, they were considered in the heritage part of the Laird in Focus study (2018), but the conclusion after research and analysis was that the properties lacked sufficient cultural heritage value or integrity to be included on the Heritage Register. Unlike the 50 or so semis on Sutherland Drive, Airdrie Road and Rumsey Road submitted for heritage listing in 2024, the properties did not have historical-associative value as housing constructed for Canada Wire and Cable Company (CWCC).
So “random act of destruction?” Hopefully not – a building permit is in place, so remaining optimistic that the replacement building will go up shortly and not leave a blighted site. Then of course there’s the Sunoco gas station site just down the road…!
