Ontario Construction News staff writer
A new 275-unit apartment complex in Guelph is the first affordable housing initiative to navigate the city’s recently introduced Community Planning Permit System (CPPS), which aims to expedite approvals and boost housing availability.
The review of the proposed Janefield Residences at 233-237 Janefield Avenue was finished in just 25 days. This development will include 21 units available for rent at rates defined as affordable by the province.
“The Janefield Avenue proposal shows what the Community Planning Permit System was meant to do: encourage affordable housing and meet community needs,” said Krista Walkey, general manager of Planning and Building Services. “With this new planning tool, we can review a project that includes affordable housing quicker.
“That’s good for the developer, because it substantially accelerates municipal approvals which helps reduce costs, and it’s good for the community because it helps ensure affordability is part of future growth.”
The CPPS was approved by city council in April 2025 and applies to the Stone Road/Edinburgh Road growth area. The system combines elements of zoning, site plan approval and minor variance processes into a single review process.
Under this new system, projects that incorporate affordable housing or other community benefits may be eligible for increased height and density. The Janefield Avenue proposal would be allowed to reach up to 14 stories instead of the previous limit of 10 stories due to its inclusion of affordable units.
The proposed development includes:
275 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments 21 affordable housing units 273 vehicle parking spaces 303 bicycle parking spaces
Thanks to the CPPS, reviews can now be completed within a required timeline of 45 days, compared to around 150 days usually needed for zoning bylaw amendments and site plan applications.
This faster approval process is backed by a more thorough review before applications are submitted, ensuring projects are ready while still meeting planning standards.
“We are proud to bring forward a thoughtfully designed residential development that will help address Guelph’s growing need for housing,” said Daniel Esfandiari of Group Five, the developer behind the proposal. “Janefield Residences reflects our commitment to delivering new homes that meet the needs of current and future residents while fitting within the surrounding neighbourhood.”
Esfandiari mentioned that his team collaborated with consultants, project partners, and city officials to create a proposal that fosters growth while providing community benefits like affordable housing.
The project will now progress through further stages of approval including clearing remaining conditions, obtaining a Community Planning Permit, and applying for a building permit before construction can start.
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