Application submitted to rezone 600 block of Coronation Avenue

Another day, another high-rise proposed for Kelowna’s downtown area.

An application has been submitted at city hall proposing the rezoning of 16 properties on Coronation Avenue.

Vernon-based MQN Architects has applied to rezone the 600 block of Coronation Avenue from medium lot housing to central business commercial.

According to the city’s developments webpage, this rezoning would facilitate a mixed-use development, including three high-rise buildings that would contain over 700 units. The buildings would stand 20, 26 and 33 storeys

Although the city’s website says this is only a rezoning application at this time, the applicant’s design plans mention a development variance permit.

MQN Architects argues that Kelowna has undergone a lot of growth and change over the past few years and claims that it is expected that a lot of the city’s growing population will live downtown.

“Very few large full-block sites remain available for redevelopment in the downtown area. Tower sites are often constrained, and their ability to transition heights into surrounding context is therefore limited,” reads the application.

The applicant’s plans include buildings that vary in height with multiple setbacks and podiums.

MQN Architects points to the proposed UBCO campus on Doyle Avenue and says towers ranging in height from 18 to 37 storeys in height will be “critical site to balance the scale and form of the north end of downtown.”

“The proposed program for the property includes retail, office, hotel, strata condominium, and a significant proportion of secured, purpose-built market rental designed to cater to singles and students through to couples, families and possibly down-sizing locals,” the applicant adds.

This application was accepted by city staff on Tuesday, May 10. Staff need to circulate this around city hall and they may require additional information.

That will all need to be submitted before it is forwarded to Kelowna City Council for consideration.