Brightside by Bosa BlueSky heads to Public Hearing – UrbanSurrey

View looking west along 104 Avenue from King George Blvd

Surrey Council gave 1st & 2nd Readings on Monday night to Bosa BlueSky’s next project in Surrey City Centre – Brightside – which will now head to Public Hearing and 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) in 2 weeks. The project, which has been under application for the past 2 years, is set to transform the former Brick / Sears Outlet store site at City Parkway & 104 Avenue, which has been sitting vacant for numerous years now. Overall, the application is seeking:

  • A General Development Permit (Form & Character) for the entire site to allow for a phased, mixed-used development consisting of 3 high-rise and 2 low-rise buildings, including:
    • 40-Storey residential tower with ground floor retail (Phase 1)
    • 50-Storey mixed-use residential tower with ground floor retail and 17 floors of office in a stepped podium (Future Phase)
    • 50-Storey residential tower with market and rental units (Future Phase)
    • 2.5-Storey market-hall commercial building
    • 2-Storey amenity building
  • A Detailed Development Permit for phase 1 of the project.
  • OCP Amendment and City Centre Plan amendments to allow for up to 7.5 FAR (9.2 FAR net) density.
  • Rezoning
  • Consolidation from 2 existing lots to 2 new lots.

View looking north along City Parkway from Surrey Central Station View from public and amenity space within interior of site looking south View looking east along 104 Avenue Future ‘Market-hall’ commercial building in centre of site as part of future phases.

Designed by Perkins & Will, the first phase of the project, a 40-Storey residential tower with ground-floor retail, is to be located at the corner of City Parkway and 104 Avenue and will include:

  • 418 Market Residential Units
  • 2,831 sq.ft. of ground floor Retail

The remaining buildings, subject to future Detailed Development Permit applications, will be located further east along 104 Avenue and north along 105 Avenue. The tallest of the towers, the 50-Storey mixed-use building with 17-Storey office podium, would become the new tallest in Surrey once complete, assuming no other building surpasses it by then, at 554 ft. (169m). The two future low-rise amenity, and market-hall buildings located in the centre of the site are to be set within a publicly accessible plaza that will invite people into the site from 104 Avenue. The plaza will be activated by retail and restaurant spaces at grade, as well as landscaping, and public art, subject to future detailed design.

In total once all phases are complete, the project will include:

  • 1,352 Residential Units (including 200 rental units)
  • 202,146 sq.ft. of Office
  • 37,049 sq.ft. of Retail

In addition to the buildings on site, the project will also bring into alignment the intersection of City Parkway and 104 Avenue. The north and south portions of City Parkway on either side of 104 Avenue currently do not connect. This alignment is expected to be completed as part of the first phase, with tower 1 to be aligned on an angle with the newly constructed City Parkway.

Phase 1 of the project is expected to be completed by 2025, with the remaining buildings to follow later in the decade. For more on the project:

https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7918-0350-00.pdf

Central Avenue – UrbanSurrey

A 26-Storey residential tower proposed at Central Ave and 133 St in the growing West Village neighbourhood received Preliminary Approval following Public Hearing on January 13. The project, named ‘CityWalk’ and being developed by Huacheng Holdings is located directly across from the new West Village District Energy Centre and Park, as well as the recently completed Evolve tower.

Designed by Wilson Chang Architect, the project is to include 223 units within a 26-storey tower above a 4-storey podium with ground-oriented townhouse units at the base fronting along Central Ave and 133 St. The building is intended to transition height from taller towers east of the site, down to a low to mid-rise form west of the site along 132 St at the edge of City Centre.

Perspective view looking north-east with 36-storey Evolve across the street View facing south-west from 133 St & Central Ave View facing north from proposed Public Pathway View facing north west from 133 St

As part of the Landscape Plan prepared for the site by Vancouver’s ETA Landscape Architecture, a public walkway is proposed along the south side of the building, lending the project its name. This pathway will connect to an existing public walkway across the street to the east between the Evolve and Ultra towers, and eventually extend further east through to Civic Plaza as more projects develop. A green-roof is also proposed as part of the plan on top of the low-rise podium.

Additionally as part of the project, Central Avenue will see its remaining south half dedicated and constructed west of 133 St for the length of the site, inclusive of a separated bike lane to match the already constructed north side of the street.

Having now received 3rd Reading, the project can be expected to receive Final Approval within a year, and completion likely by 2024-5.

For more on the project https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7918-0125-00.pdf

A development application has been submitted for a new mixed-use project on 104 Ave near Whalley Blvd. The subject site is made up of 3 existing properties that span the block between 104 Ave and Central Ave just east of Whalley Blvd. The site is currently occupied by a run-down early 1970’s strip mall known as ‘Plaza 104’.

According to details of the development application, the applicant – Andrew Cheung Architects – is seeking to rezone the property and amend both the Official Community Plan and City Centre Plan for increased density from 3.5 FAR to 5.5 FAR to allow for a phased 1149 unit mixed-use development containing 10,720 sq.ft. of commercial space. This translates into approximately 3 high-rise residential towers above retail. In addition, the development would dedicate a new north-south road through the site, as well as 2 new lanes as per the City Centre Plan.

The current application is seeking a Development Permit for phase 1, which is to contain a single tower (383 units) and all 10,720 sq.ft. of commercial space on a newly subdivided parcel fronting 104 Avenue. The remaining phases of the project to the south would be subject to future applications.

Site in context of the City Centre Plan showing future road and lane dedications Subject Site on 104 Avenue east of Whalley Blvd containing a 1970’s strip mall Birds-eye view of site looking south from 104 Ave

For more on the application: https://apps.surrey.ca/Online-Development-Inquiry/?year=19&seq=0060

Rendering of proposed tower from 133A St

Mason Link Development has released a rendering of one of their upcoming projects in City Centre at 133A St & Central Avenue (future). The tower, which is not yet under application (but should be soon), is to be located just behind the new SFU building, replacing some of the last remaining single family homes in the area, and closing the last remaining portion of former 103 Avenue.

In the rendering released, a 26-storey tower is depicted above a townhouse podium fronting 133A St. At the north end of the site, there will be some dedication for the new alignment of Central Avenue. This corner is designated for mixed-use under the City Centre Plan – so retail is possible on the Central Avenue frontage. To the south of the site, there are plans for a covered bus layover facility – which when complete – will allow for the removal of the Surrey Central Bus Loop and re-development of the ‘Central Block’ where the Rec Centre and Bus Loop currently sit. To the east of the site is the currently under construction Prime on the Plaza, and new north-south green lane.

Subject Site within City Centre Plan Conceptual plan for ‘Centre Block’ area showing future Covered Bus Layover Facility and Subject Site

While an application has yet to be submitted, the subject site has been fenced off for a number of months now, with Mason Link signage posted. If an application is submitted within the next year, sales / construction can be expected to commence sometime in the early 2020’s.

March 2021 Update – UrbanSurrey

The March Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of new Development Applications, Council Approvals, and Construction activity during the past month of February.

New Development Applications

There were no new major development applications submitted in City Centre during February 2021.

As of March 2021, there are 30 major development applications under initial review (pre-council), consisting of approximately 34 towers, and 21 low-rises.

Major development applications under initial review as of March 2021

Council Approvals

Two major projects received 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) from Surrey City Council in February 2021. These included GEC Education Mega Centre, a 49-Storey Mixed- use tower, and Bosa’s Brightside, a 4-tower mixed-use development ranging in heights from 38-51 Storeys.

As of March 2021, there are 34 approved major projects in City Centre, consisting of 43 towers, and 22 low-rises.

Approved major development applications as of March 2021

18 – 0350 | Brightside

Bosa’s Brightside re-appeared before Surrey City Council in February 2021 after having been previously approved back in March 2020. The application has been amended to include an additional tower (previously under a separate application), as well as some minor revisions to the original proposal. The application now consists of 4 towers (38, 46, 50 & 51-Storeys) surrounding 2 low-rise retail & amenity buildings, to be built over a number of phases. Phase 1 is to include a 38-Storey rental residential tower on the corner of City Parkway & 104 Avenue.

Address: 104 Ave & City Parkway
Proposal: 38, 46, 50 & 51-Storey Mixed-Use
(1,840 units, 239,421 SF office/retail)
Developer: Bosa BlueSky
Architect: Perkins + Will
Expected Completion: 2025 (Phase 1)

20 – 0071 | GEC Education Mega Centre

GEC Education Mega Centre also re-appeared before Surrey City Council in February 2021 after having been previously approved back in October 2017 under a separate application. The revised application now includes a 49-storey mixed-use tower consisting of 383 market

& rental residential units, 78,490 SF of office & institutional space, and 4,973 SF of retail. The project will also dedicate and construct a new portion of 102A Avenue through the site which is to eventually connect east to King George Blvd and beyond.

Address: 102A Ave & City Parkway
Proposal: 49-Storey Mixed-Use
(383 units, 83,468 SF office/retail, institutional)
Developer: CIBT / WestStone Group
Architect: Chris Dikeakos
Expected Completion: 2025

Construction

No new projects began construction during January 2021, however one project finished construction (Central City Parkade), and one project began demolition, after having been halted in Fall 2020 (La Voda – 6-Storey Residential).

As of February 2021, there are 16 projects under construction in City Centre, representing 15 high-rises (>6 Storeys) and 6 low-rises (4-6-storeys).

Major projects under construction as of March 2021 Camellia Seniors Living – 132 St & 109 Ave Georgetown One by Anthem beginning to transform the corner of 102 Ave & Whalley Blvd Linea nearing completion at the corner of 133 St & 104 Ave Surrey’s next tallest – One Central beginning to rise in West Village Excavation underway at Park George on 100 Ave Rosewood Supportive Housing project rising above ground on 137 St King George Hub residential towers and retail nearing completion along Fraser Highway City Centre 3 nearing completion at 96 Ave & 137A St

UrbanSurrey – UrbanSurrey

The December Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes an overview of 2021 stats in review, new to market projects, development applications, approvals, and construction activity during the past month. For a full list of all active projects – check out the Active Projects Page.

New Development Applications

As of December 2021, there are 32 major development applications proposed in Surrey City Centre, representing 34 high-rise and 17 low-rise buildings.

The past month saw 2 new development applications submitted:

21 – 0341 | 132 St & Ravine Rd

Proposal: 6-Storey Residential (77 Units)
Address: 10970-10986 Ravine Rd
Applicant: Flat Architecture

A Rezoning, Subdivision, and Development Permit application has been submitted by Flat Architecture for a 6-Storey residential building at the corner of 132 St & Ravine Rd. The application is proposing to consolidate 2 existing single family lots into 1 new lot to allow for a small footprint building containing 77 units. The project will also dedicate a new laneway at the rear, connecting to a recently completed laneway to the south behind the 5-storey Camellia Residences building.

21 – 0343 | Emerald City

Proposal: 30-37-Storey Residential (995 Units)
2,282 SF Retail
Address: 10955 City Parkway
Applicant: Allure Venutres

A Rezoning and Development Permit application has been submitted by Allure Ventures for a 3-tower project just north of Gateway Station at the terminus of City Parkway. Named Emerald City, the project is to include 955 units and 2,282 SF of retail within towers ranging between 30-37-storeys set above curved podiums following the bend of University Drive along the north edge of the site. The project will be Allure’s second in Surrey City Centre, following ‘The Grand’ which recently began construction nearby.

21 – 0347 | City Centre 4

Proposal: 23-Storey Office / Retail (355,155 SF)
Address: 9677 137A St
Applicant: Lark Group

A Rezoning, Subdivision, OCP & City Centre Amendment, and Development Permit application has been submitted by Lark Group for a 23-Storey office tower with ground floor retail just to the north of Surrey Memorial Hospital in the Innovation Boulevard District. The tower will be their fourth and tallest to date in the district, following City Centre 1, 2, & 3 just to the adjacent south. The application is proposing to consolidate 6 existing single family lots into 1 new lot, and is to include approx. 355,155 SF of office and retail space.

Council Approvals

As of December 2021, there are 35 major development applications approved in Surrey City Centre, representing 37 high-rise and 31 low-rise buildings.

The past month saw one new project receive Conditional Approval:

20 – 0290 | 105 Ave & 132 St

Proposal: 6-Storey Residential x 2 (248 Units)
Address: 104A Ave & 138A St
Developer: Adera
Architect: RH Architects

Adera Development’s upcoming project in City Centre received 3rd Reading (Conditional Approval) by Surrey City Council on November 8. The project is to include two 6-storey market residential buildings containing 248 units, and will span an entire block between 132 St to 133 St along 105 Ave.

Designed by RH Architects, the 2 buildings will replace 6 existing single family homes, and be separated by a shared courtyard space. The project will also create a new urban green lane along the south (rear) and east edges of the site.

Construction

As of December 2021, there are 20 major projects under construction in Surrey City Centre, representing 18 high-rise and 8 low-rise buildings. The past month saw 2 new projects begin construction.

New Construction

Hendrix (6-Storey Residential) – Excavation now underway on 108 Ave Parks & Yards (38-Storey Residential, Office, Retail) – Site preparation and heritage building restoration now underway

Continued Construction

Century City Holland Park (19-Storey Rental, 11-Storey Office) – Crane now up for rental tower Parkway 1 (38-Storey Rental) – Marketing fencing now up and drilling underway along 104 Ave One Central (44-Storey Condo, Retail) – View of podium from lane with main tower continuing to rise Plaza One & Two @ King George Hub (41 + 44-Storey Residential, Office, Retail) – First crane now installed Q5 (6-Storey Residential) – Underground parking levels construction underway University District (28 +37-Storey Residential, Retail) – View looking south along University Dr from 105 Ave The Holland (25-Storey Residential) – Tower gaining height above townhouse podium The Grand (46-Storey Residential, Office, Retail) – Excavation progressing Rosewood (5-Storey Residential) – Exterior cladding taking shape Belvedere (27-Storey Residential, Retail) – Excavation progressing Parc Centrale (20-Storey Residential, Office) – Now topped out at 20-Storeys

The November Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of general updates, new development applications, and construction activity during the past month. For a full list of all active projects – check out the Active Projects Page.

New Development Applications

As of November 2021, there are 30 major development applications under initial review in Surrey City Centre, representing 30 high-rise and 17 low-rise buildings.

New development applications over the past month include:

21 – 0311 | Fraser Hwy & Whalley Blvd

A Rezoning, Subdivision, OCP / City Centre Plan Amendment, and Development Permit application has been submitted by KGS Holdings for a 38-storey residential tower just to the south of King George Hub at Fraser Hwy & Whalley Blvd. The application is proposing to consolidate 3 existing single family lots as well as dedicate new roadway for the eventual extension of Whalley Blvd south of Fraser Hwy.

21 – 0313 | 102 Ave & King George Blvd

A Rezoning, OCP / City Centre Plan Amendment, and Development Permit application has been submitted by Chris Dikeakos Architects for a 49-storey residential tower above an 8-storey office podium with ground floor retail at the north-west corner of 102 Ave & King George Blvd. The project would replace an existing 1-storey strip mall and surface parking lot with 739 residential units and 223,545 SF of office space. The project will also dedicate land along the north side of the site for a new portion of 102A Ave, as well as land along the west side of the site for a new urban green lane.

Council Approvals

As of November 2021, there are 36 major development applications approved in Surrey City Centre, representing 38 high-rise and 31 low-rise buildings. There was just 1 Surrey City Council meeting over the past month, with no new approvals.

Construction

As of November 2021, there are 18 major projects under construction in Surrey City Centre, representing 17 high-rise and 7 low-rise buildings. The past month saw 1 new project begin construction – the Grand – A 46-storey residential tower above a 5-storey office & retail podium on King George Blvd at 107 Ave.

New Construction

The Grand (46-Storey Residential, Office, Retail) – Excavation now underway

Continued Construction

Holland Parkside Phase 1 (11-Storey Office, 19-Storey Rental) – Excavation progressing Parc Centrale (20-Storey Residential, Office, Legion) – View looking south along City Parkway. One Central (44-Storey Condo, Retail) – View looking west from Central City Plaza One & Two @ King George Hub (41 + 44-Storey Residential, Office, Retail) – Excavation progressing Centra (23-Storey Residential) – Excavation continuing with parking levels construction underway. University District (28 +37-Storey Residential, Retail) – View from University Dr of tallest tower main entry and podium. The Holland (25-Storey Residential) – View looking north-west along Old Yale Rd. Park George (35 + 39-Storey Residential) – Excavation continues with foundational work underway Parker (4-Storey Residential) – View looking north-east from 139 St & 105 Blvd

The October Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of new Development Applications, Council Approvals, and Construction activity during the past month of September 2021. For a full list of all active projects – check out the Active Projects Page.

New Development Applications

The past month saw two new major development applications submitted. As of October 2021, there are 28 major development applications under initial review within City Centre, representing 28 high-rise and 17 low-rise buildings.

21 – 0270 | 102A Ave & 133A St

A Rezoning, Subdivision, City Centre Amendment, and Development Permit application has been submitted by IBI Group for a 42-Storey residential tower above ground-level retail at the corner of 133A St & 102A Ave just to the west of SFU. The application is proposing to consolidate 5 existing lots, currently occupied by a gravel parking lot, a vacant lot, and a four-plex to create 473 residential units above 3,762 SF of retail.

21 – 0285 | 104 Ave & 138A Ave

A Rezoning, Subdivision, OCP & City Centre Amendment, and Development Permit application has been submitted by Streetside Developments for a 32-Storey residential tower above a 6-storey podium with ground level retail on the south-east corner of 138A St & 104 Ave Ave. The building would replace an existing car wash on the site with 339 residential units and 11,043 SF of retail.

Council Approvals

The past month saw two additional projects receive 3rd Reading (Conditional Approval) from Surrey City Council. As of October 2021, there are 37 major projects approved within City Centre, representing 39 high-rise and 31 low-rise buildings.

19 – 0091 | 104A Ave & 138A St (Porte)

Porte’s next upcoming project in Surrey City Centre received 3rd Reading by Council on September 13. Occupying half a block between 138A St and 139 St north of 104A Ave, the 6-Storey project will include 299 units amongst 4 buildings to be constructed in phases. The project will replace 8 existing single family lots and close an existing lane, while opening a new green lane along the north edge of the site.

Designed by Studio One Architects, the buildings will create a more urban streetscape along 138A St & 139 St with 2-storey street-oriented townhomes integrated into the base of each building.

Location: 104A Ave & 138A St
Proposal: 6-Storey Condo (x4) (299 Units)
Developer: Porte Homes
Architect: Studio One
Expected Completion: 2024-2026

West facade of proposed development along 138A St View looking north-east from 104A Ave & 138A St

20 – 0233 | Centre Block (Phase 1 & 2)

Phase 1 & 2 of the much anticipated ‘Centre Block’ development received 3rd Reading from Council on September 13. Located on the former North Surrey Rec Centre site, the project is to consist of over 1 million square feet of office space between two towers (19 and 47-storeys) above a retail and institutional base. The taller tower will become the tallest office tower in Metro Vancouver at 738 feet once complete. Additionally, the project will integrate with both Civic Plaza to the north and Surrey Central Station though new plaza space featuring a network of overhead canopies.

Location: University Dr & 102A Ave
Proposal: 19 & 47-Storey Office (1,181,500 SF), Institutional (152,783 SF), Retail (22,884 SF)
Developer: SCDC / City of Surrey
Architect: Hariri Pontarini / Adamson
Expected Completion: TBD

Aerial view looking east View looking south from Civic Plaza View looking south-west showing Centre Block’s integration with Surrey Central Station Plan view of Centre Block Phase 1 & 2

Construction

The past month saw one new major project begin construction. As of October 2021, there are 17 major projects under construction within City Centre, representing 16 high-rise and 7 low-rise buildings.

New Construction

Brightside Phase 1 (38-Storey Rental, Retail) – Site preparation & drilling underway

Continued Construction

Park George (35 & 39-Storey Condo) – Work underway on foundation and underground parking levels The Holland (25-Storey Condo) – Beginning to rise at corner of 133 St & Old Yale Rd One Central (44-Storey Condo, Retail) – View looking east from Central Ave. Main tower rising above podium. Holland Parkside Phase 1 (11-Storey Office, 19-Storey Rental) – Excavation progressing Parc Centrale (20-Storey Condo, Office, Legion) – Continuing to rise with 5 levels to go. Glazing and red paneling taking shape. Ledgeview (6-Storey Condo) – View from King George Blvd. Exterior work continues. Georgetown One (30-Storey Condo, Retail) – View looking south-west from future 102A Ave. Work continues on tower and podium. University District (28 & 37-Storey Condo, Retail) – View looking south from 105 Ave & University Dr Q5 (6-Storey Condo) – Excavation continues with crane now installed Belvedere (27-Storey Condo, Retail) – View looking south – Excavation progressing.

Completions

King George Hub – New public art installations within recently completed retail plaza King George Hub – View looking north from new retail plaza

The August Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of Council Approvals and Construction activity during the past month of July 2021.

Council Approvals

The past month saw 2 major projects receive approvals from Surrey City Council. As of August 2021, there are 37 major projects approved in City Centre, representing 40 high-rise and 25 low-rise buildings.

20 – 0244 | Innovation Village

This 3-tower mixed-use project by WestStone Group on King George Blvd across from Surrey Memorial Hospital received 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) on July 26. The application is seeking a Rezoning, OCP & City Centre Plan Amendment, and General Development Permit to allow for three towers to be built in phases.

The tallest tower (37-storeys) closest to King George Blvd is to contain retail & office space on levels 1-5 with residential above. The remaining 2 towers to the east (31 & 12-storeys) are to be entirely residential. Separate detailed Development Permit applications are to follow in the future for each building.

View looking north along new 95 Avenue Plan view of Innovation Village with new 95 Avenue through site

21 – 0072 | Brightside (Phase 3)

Phase 3 of BlueSky’s Brightside development went to Council on July 12, receiving approval to draft Development Permit. This phase of the project will include a 51-Storey mixed condo / rental tower and 2-storey standalone amenity building on the north-east corner of the site along 105 Ave.

The overall Brightside development originally received Rezoning and General Development Permit approval back in March 2020, later revised in February 2021 to include a 4th tower. Phase 1 will consist of a 38-storey rental tower on the south-west corner of the site at 104 Ave & City Parkway.

View looking south-west from King George Blvd towards Tower 3 View of Tower 3 base – looking south along new green lane from 105 Ave View of 2-storey amenity building along 105 Ave Overall Brightside Master Plan – Phase 3 at top right

Construction

The past month saw 2 new major construction starts and 1 completion. As of August 2021, there are 16 major projects under construction in City Centre, representing 15 high-rise and 7 low-rise buildings.

New Construction

Holland Parkside Phase 1 (11-Storey Office + 19-Storey Rental over retail) – Begun excavation Plaza One & Two (41 & 44-storey residential over office & retail) – The final phase of King George Hub has begun excavation

Continued Construction

Rosewood (5-Storey Supportive Housing) – now topped out on 137 St The Holland (25-Storey Residential) – Now at grade with construction beginning on level 1 One Central (44-Storey Residential & Retail) – Podium now topped off at 14 levels, with main tower to rise above University District (28 & 37-Storey Residential & Retail) – Towers beginning to rise above townhouse and retail podiums Parc Centrale (20-Storey Residential + Legion) – Main tower rising above podium on City Parkway Park Boulevard (41-Storey Residential) – Main entry on Park Plaza nearing completion Georgetown One (30-Storey Residential + Retail) – View from Central City Plaza Park George (35 & 39-Storey Residential) – Excavation now bottomed out Ledgeview (6-Storey Residential) – Now topped out at King George Blvd & 132 St with glazing & exterior work underway

Completions

Hub One & Two at King George Hub (29 & 40-Storey Residential) – View from Fraser Hwy & George Junction Hub One & Two at King George Hub (29 & 40-Storey Residential) – View of residential entries and new multi-use path along Fraser Hwy Hub One & Two at King George Hub (29 & 40-Storey Residential) – Retail plaza to open in Fall 2021

The May Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of new Development Applications, Council Approvals, and Construction activity during the past month of April 2021.

New Development Applications

One new development application was submitted in City Centre during the past month – a 6-Storey residential project located at 100A Ave & 133 St to the west of Holland Park.

21-0090 | 100A Ave & 133 St

A Rezoning, Subdivision, and Development Permit application was submitted in April for a proposed 6-Storey residential project consisting of 101 units at 100A Ave & 133 St. The site is located just south of two other 6-Storey residential projects under application, which together will begin to transition this existing Single Family area into a more urban low-rise multi-family residential district.

Initial Review Map

As of May 2021, there are 26 major development applications under initial review, consisting of approximately 30 high-rises, and 21 low-rises.

Council Approvals

Four projects received approvals from Surrey City Council during the past month.

18 – 0096 | 138 St & 105 Ave

This 6-Storey residential project located on a small 1/4 acre lot at the corner of 138 St & 105 Ave recived 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) in April. Due to its small and unique footprint for Surrey, the building will consist of just 28 units of rental housing. Completion is expected by 2024.

19 – 0004 | Park Central

This 6-Storey residential project on Old Yale Road just west of Holland Park recived 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) in April. Being developed by Peace Enterprises, the project will bring 43 rental units to the area along with a new extension of 133 Street south along the west side of the site. Completion is expected by 2024.

19 – 0367 | Whalley Station

Tien Sher Group received preliminary approval in April for for their 51-Storey mixed-use ‘Whalley Station’ project located at King George Blvd and 108 Ave. The tower is to become Surrey’s tallest building once completed, with 501 residential units above a 6-storey office and retail podium. The development will also create a new plaza on the south west corner of King George & 108 Ave leading into a grand 6-Storey atrium through the site. The current application is for a general development permit and rezoning only, with a separate detailed development permit application expected in the future.

20 – 0149 | Holland Parkside (Phase 1)

Phase 1 of Century Group’s Holland Parkside received its Development Permit in April to allow for a 19-storey rental residential tower, and 11-storey office building with ground level retail and a ‘market food hall’ at King George Blvd and 98 Ave. This first phase is part of a master plan for the site (approved in 2020) which will see 2 additional market residential towers developed on the western portion of the site in the future, subject to separate development permit applications. Construction of Phase 1 is expected to commence by Summer 2021.

Approved Projects Map

As of May 2021, there are 36 approved major projects in City Centre, consisting of 42 high-rises, and 24 low-rises.

Construction

No new projects began construction during the past month, however one project completed construction – 28-Storey Linea by Rize at 104 Ave & 133 St.

Active Construction Map

As of May 2021, there are 17 major projects under construction in City Centre, representing approximately 15 high-rises, and 8 low-rises.

28-Storey Linea by Rize now complete at 104 Ave & 133 St 20-Storey Veterans Village / Parc Centrale rising at City Parkway & 105A Ave Crane now installed for Townline’s 25-Storey ‘The Holland’ on Old Yale Rd 5-Storey Transitional Housing project ‘Rosewood’ rising above 137 St Street frontage upgrades underway in front of Camellia Seniors Housing on 132 St Birds Eye View of progress at University District by BlueSky Large canopy entrance along Fraser Highway at King George Hub New multi-use path along Fraser Highway as part of King George Hub Excavation underway for 23-Storey Centra on 101 Ave 44-Storey One Central rising in West Village

The April Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of new Development Applications, Council Approvals, and Construction activity during the prior month of March 2021.

New Development Applications

There were no new major development applications submitted in City Centre during March 2021.

As of April 2021, there are 30 major development applications under initial review (pre-council), consisting of approximately 34 towers, and 21 low-rises.

Major development applications under initial review as of April 2021

Council Approvals

No major projects received 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) from Surrey City Council during the past month of March, in part due to Spring Break.

As of April 2021, there are 33 approved major projects in City Centre, consisting of 42 towers, and 22 low-rises.

Approved major development applications as of April 2021

Construction

One new project began construction during March – A 23-storey market residential tower known as Centra by Everest Group located on 101 Ave at 139 St.

As of April 2021, there are 17 projects under construction in City Centre, representing 16 high-rises (>6 Storeys) and 7 low-rises (4-6-storeys).

Major projects under construction as of April 2021 30-Storey Georgetown One rising amidst the backdrop of King George Hub Parker by Mosaic progressing on 105 Ave near 140 St 44-Storey One Central rising above its podium on 133A St at Central Ave King George Hub office tower nearing completion at new intersection of King George Blvd and George Junction New road, bike path, and sidewalk along George Junction King George Hub office tower entrance fronting King George Blvd Legion ‘Veterans Village’ / Parc Centrale rising above City Parkway at 105A Ave 41-Storey Park Boulevard nearing completion along Whalley Blvd
Maverick nearing occupancy at Whalley Blvd & Grosevnor Rd

April 2021 Update – UrbanSurrey

The April Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of new Development Applications, Council Approvals, and Construction activity during the prior month of March 2021.

New Development Applications

There were no new major development applications submitted in City Centre during March 2021.

As of April 2021, there are 30 major development applications under initial review (pre-council), consisting of approximately 34 towers, and 21 low-rises.

Major development applications under initial review as of April 2021

Council Approvals

No major projects received 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) from Surrey City Council during the past month of March, in part due to Spring Break.

As of April 2021, there are 33 approved major projects in City Centre, consisting of 42 towers, and 22 low-rises.

Approved major development applications as of April 2021

Construction

One new project began construction during March – A 23-storey market residential tower known as Centra by Everest Group located on 101 Ave at 139 St.

As of April 2021, there are 17 projects under construction in City Centre, representing 16 high-rises (>6 Storeys) and 7 low-rises (4-6-storeys).

Major projects under construction as of April 2021 30-Storey Georgetown One rising amidst the backdrop of King George Hub Parker by Mosaic progressing on 105 Ave near 140 St 44-Storey One Central rising above its podium on 133A St at Central Ave King George Hub office tower nearing completion at new intersection of King George Blvd and George Junction New road, bike path, and sidewalk along George Junction King George Hub office tower entrance fronting King George Blvd Legion ‘Veterans Village’ / Parc Centrale rising above City Parkway at 105A Ave 41-Storey Park Boulevard nearing completion along Whalley Blvd
Maverick nearing occupancy at Whalley Blvd & Grosevnor Rd

Passages by Rize heads to Council – UrbanSurrey

Vancouver developer Rize is set to bring their latest and most ambitious project to date before Surrey Council on Monday for 1st & 2nd Readings, and approval to proceed to Public Hearing. Passages as it’s called, is a proposed master-planned mixed-use development at 10138 Whalley Blvd consisting of market condos, market rental apartments, retail, and daycare space, all situated within a European-style ‘piazza’ public plaza. In total the project is proposing:

  • 3 High-Rise towers and 1 Low-Rise (6, 23, 32 & 39 Storeys) containing 954 Market Condo Residential Units
  • 2 Mid-Rise towers (13 Storeys each) containing 172 Market Rental Residential Units
  • 18,116 sq.ft. of Ground Level Retail Space
  • 4,252 sq.ft. of Daycare Space
  • A 69,602 sq.ft. Publicly Accessible ‘Piazza’-Style Public Plaza

Rendering of central public ‘Piazza’ space within Passages development

Designed by London, UK based Alison Brooks Architects, Passages brings a fresh departure from the standard point tower above podium form, commonly found throughout Metro Vancouver. Instead, the project consists of 6 irregularly-shaped buildings of varying heights, clustered around a ‘Piazza’-style public plaza.

The design takes inspiration from coastal BC forests, incorporating references to ‘textured tree bark’ on building facades, and the use of earth tones and materials. Interspersed single and double-storey units are present throughout the towers, adding variation in form and glazing pattern. The 6-storey building is a modern interpretation of the traditional ‘British mansion block’ merged with ground floor townhouses.

The site’s perimeter and courtyard are structured as open, barrier-free spaces that the public and residents can share and enjoy. A series of four distinct piazzas, City Piazza, Park Piazza, Central Piazza and Neighbourhood Piazza, are linked by narrow urban groves between buildings and enriched streetscape edges.

The Landscape Architect on the project is Vancouver’s PWL Partnership tasked with designing the publicly accessibly open spaces comprised of the four landscaped piazzas. These spaces are animated with community agricultural gardens, an urban square with seating, a children’s play area, a great lawn for event and performance space, a yoga and exercise zone, a community harvest table, and an outdoor barbeque and games table space to encourage the public and residents to interact and socialize.

Passages will replace two existing and aging, wood-frame, 4-storey apartment buildings known as Fraserview Court, built in the 1970’s. Rize is proposing to offset the loss of the 154 existing rental residential units on site by providing 172 new rental residential units in two new 13-Storey concrete mid-rises as part of re-development. These rental units will be secured for a period of 20-years, through a Housing Agreement with the City. Rize is also assisting existing residents facing displacement through a City policy directed Tenant Relocation and Assistance Plan.

The project is proposed to be built in 3 phases, which includes:

Phase 1 (Targeted Completion: May 2023)

  • 13-Storey Mid-Rise with Market Rental Residential (88 Units), Ground Floor Cafe, and Daycare
  • 23-Storey High-Rise with Market Condo Residential (212 Units)

Phase 2 (Targeted Completion: June 2024)

  • 6-Storey Low-Rise with Market Condo Residential (66 Units)
  • 32-Storey High-Rise with Market Condo Residential (304 Units), and Ground Level Retail

Phase 3 (Targeted Completion: August 2024)

  • 13-Storey Mid-Rise with Market Rental Residential (84 Units), and Ground Level Retail
  • 39-Storey High-Rise with Market Condo Residential (372 Units)

In terms of approvals, the development is seeking:

  • City Centre Plan amendment to increase density on the site from 3.5 FAR to 5.5 FAR
  • Official Community Plan amendment to increase density on the site from 3.5 FAR to 5.5 FAR
  • Rezoning from Multiple Residential 45 Zone to Comprehensive Development Zone (Based on RM-135 & C-8)
  • Subdivision from 1 to 3 lots
  • Development Permit to allow for 3 High-Rise Buildings, 2 Mid-Rise Buildings, and 1 Low-Rise Building.

For more information on Passages:

https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7918-0289-00.pdf

Mason Link – UrbanSurrey

Rendering of proposed tower from 133A St

Mason Link Development has released a rendering of one of their upcoming projects in City Centre at 133A St & Central Avenue (future). The tower, which is not yet under application (but should be soon), is to be located just behind the new SFU building, replacing some of the last remaining single family homes in the area, and closing the last remaining portion of former 103 Avenue.

In the rendering released, a 26-storey tower is depicted above a townhouse podium fronting 133A St. At the north end of the site, there will be some dedication for the new alignment of Central Avenue. This corner is designated for mixed-use under the City Centre Plan – so retail is possible on the Central Avenue frontage. To the south of the site, there are plans for a covered bus layover facility – which when complete – will allow for the removal of the Surrey Central Bus Loop and re-development of the ‘Central Block’ where the Rec Centre and Bus Loop currently sit. To the east of the site is the currently under construction Prime on the Plaza, and new north-south green lane.

Subject Site within City Centre Plan Conceptual plan for ‘Centre Block’ area showing future Covered Bus Layover Facility and Subject Site

While an application has yet to be submitted, the subject site has been fenced off for a number of months now, with Mason Link signage posted. If an application is submitted within the next year, sales / construction can be expected to commence sometime in the early 2020’s.

November 2020 – UrbanSurrey

The November issue of the City Centre Monthly Update is now out at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of new Development Applications, Council Approvals, and Construction activity during the previous month.

New Development Applications

20-0233 (Center Block)

View from Civic Plaza of the initial phase of Centre Block – 14 + 35-Storey Office & Retail

A preliminary Rezoning and General Development Permit application has been submitted for the first phase of the much anticipated redevelopment of the North Surrey Recreation Centre site, known as ‘Center Block.’ The applicant, Surrey City Development Corporation (SCDC), is proposing 1,446,088 sq.ft. of office and commercial space, next to Civic Plaza and Surrey Central Station as part of this initial phase, which will include 2 office buildings at 14 & 35-Storeys, with retail at grade. The current application is for rezoning and master plan approval only. Separate applications will be submitted in the future for each building / phase.

The Center Block project plans to transform the city’s core with a number of new office towers, an expanded SFU campus, retail, and a new transit plaza integrated with a revamped Surrey Central Station, expected to be built over the coming decade.

20-0244 (9525 King George Blvd)

This application replaces a previously approved Seniors Living & Care Facility project known as ‘Innovation Boulevard’ originally planned for a site across from Surrey Memorial Hospital. Since failing to attract investment in that project since its approval in 2016, WestStone Group has now submitted a new application for the site. The new application is proposing a mixed-use residential, office, and retail development, which is to include 920 residential units, and 10,841 sq.ft. of commercial space.

Council Approvals

18-0443 (13245 104 Ave)

13-Storey Rental Apartment at 13245 104 Ave

This mixed rental and market residential project at 13245 104 Avenue received 3rd Reading (Conditional Approval) in October 2020. The current application included a detailed Development Permit for just Phase 1 of the project, which will include a 13-storey rental apartment building (115 Units) on the north portion of the site. Phase 2, subject to a future detailed Development Permit application, is to include a 16-storey market residential building, containing 157 units, on the south portion of the site fronting 104 Avenue.

The site is adjacent to, and will eventually become integrated, with a similar application to the east, which received Conditional Approval in September 2020 for a 21-storey rental and 26-storey market residential project.

Master Plan for adjacent rental & market residential projects at 13245 & 13264 104 Ave

19-0105 (The Holland 2)

The Holland 2 – 32-Storey Market Residential

The second phase of Townline Homes ‘The Holland’ project received Conditional Approval in October 2020. This phase will include a 32-storey market residential tower consisting of 308 units at 13333 Old Yale Rd. The first phase of the project, consisting of a 25-storey market residential tower, began construction in September 2020.

Construction

The month of October 2020 saw continued construction on 15 major projects within City Centre, including 15 high-rise towers (>6 Storeys) and 4 low-rises (6-storeys or less) representing:

  • 5,190 Residential Units
  • 312,179 Sq.ft. of Office Space
  • 164,220 sq.ft. of Retail

A 6-storey residential project at Fraser Hwy and 140 Street known as Fraser Landmark completed in October 2020.

Fraser Landmark at Fraser Hwy & 140 St completed construction in October 2020 Construction progress at King George Hub (Phase B) King George Hub (Phase C) – 34-Storey Rental Apartments Linea – 28-Storey Market Residential nearing completion at 133 St & 104 Ave City Centre 3 – 10-Storey Office across from Surrey Memorial Georgetown One – 30-Storey Residential & Retail at 102 Ave & Whalley Blvd One Central – 44-Storey Residential under construction in West Village

May 2021 Update – UrbanSurrey

The May Issue of the City Centre Update is now available at SurreyCityCentre.ca. This month’s newsletter includes a round-up of new Development Applications, Council Approvals, and Construction activity during the past month of April 2021.

New Development Applications

One new development application was submitted in City Centre during the past month – a 6-Storey residential project located at 100A Ave & 133 St to the west of Holland Park.

21-0090 | 100A Ave & 133 St

A Rezoning, Subdivision, and Development Permit application was submitted in April for a proposed 6-Storey residential project consisting of 101 units at 100A Ave & 133 St. The site is located just south of two other 6-Storey residential projects under application, which together will begin to transition this existing Single Family area into a more urban low-rise multi-family residential district.

Initial Review Map

As of May 2021, there are 26 major development applications under initial review, consisting of approximately 30 high-rises, and 21 low-rises.

Council Approvals

Four projects received approvals from Surrey City Council during the past month.

18 – 0096 | 138 St & 105 Ave

This 6-Storey residential project located on a small 1/4 acre lot at the corner of 138 St & 105 Ave recived 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) in April. Due to its small and unique footprint for Surrey, the building will consist of just 28 units of rental housing. Completion is expected by 2024.

19 – 0004 | Park Central

This 6-Storey residential project on Old Yale Road just west of Holland Park recived 3rd Reading (Preliminary Approval) in April. Being developed by Peace Enterprises, the project will bring 43 rental units to the area along with a new extension of 133 Street south along the west side of the site. Completion is expected by 2024.

19 – 0367 | Whalley Station

Tien Sher Group received preliminary approval in April for for their 51-Storey mixed-use ‘Whalley Station’ project located at King George Blvd and 108 Ave. The tower is to become Surrey’s tallest building once completed, with 501 residential units above a 6-storey office and retail podium. The development will also create a new plaza on the south west corner of King George & 108 Ave leading into a grand 6-Storey atrium through the site. The current application is for a general development permit and rezoning only, with a separate detailed development permit application expected in the future.

20 – 0149 | Holland Parkside (Phase 1)

Phase 1 of Century Group’s Holland Parkside received its Development Permit in April to allow for a 19-storey rental residential tower, and 11-storey office building with ground level retail and a ‘market food hall’ at King George Blvd and 98 Ave. This first phase is part of a master plan for the site (approved in 2020) which will see 2 additional market residential towers developed on the western portion of the site in the future, subject to separate development permit applications. Construction of Phase 1 is expected to commence by Summer 2021.

Approved Projects Map

As of May 2021, there are 36 approved major projects in City Centre, consisting of 42 high-rises, and 24 low-rises.

Construction

No new projects began construction during the past month, however one project completed construction – 28-Storey Linea by Rize at 104 Ave & 133 St.

Active Construction Map

As of May 2021, there are 17 major projects under construction in City Centre, representing approximately 15 high-rises, and 8 low-rises.

28-Storey Linea by Rize now complete at 104 Ave & 133 St 20-Storey Veterans Village / Parc Centrale rising at City Parkway & 105A Ave Crane now installed for Townline’s 25-Storey ‘The Holland’ on Old Yale Rd 5-Storey Transitional Housing project ‘Rosewood’ rising above 137 St Street frontage upgrades underway in front of Camellia Seniors Housing on 132 St Birds Eye View of progress at University District by BlueSky Large canopy entrance along Fraser Highway at King George Hub New multi-use path along Fraser Highway as part of King George Hub Excavation underway for 23-Storey Centra on 101 Ave 44-Storey One Central rising in West Village

Wilson Chang Architect – UrbanSurrey

A 26-Storey residential tower proposed at Central Ave and 133 St in the growing West Village neighbourhood received Preliminary Approval following Public Hearing on January 13. The project, named ‘CityWalk’ and being developed by Huacheng Holdings is located directly across from the new West Village District Energy Centre and Park, as well as the recently completed Evolve tower.

Designed by Wilson Chang Architect, the project is to include 223 units within a 26-storey tower above a 4-storey podium with ground-oriented townhouse units at the base fronting along Central Ave and 133 St. The building is intended to transition height from taller towers east of the site, down to a low to mid-rise form west of the site along 132 St at the edge of City Centre.

Perspective view looking north-east with 36-storey Evolve across the street View facing south-west from 133 St & Central Ave View facing north from proposed Public Pathway View facing north west from 133 St

As part of the Landscape Plan prepared for the site by Vancouver’s ETA Landscape Architecture, a public walkway is proposed along the south side of the building, lending the project its name. This pathway will connect to an existing public walkway across the street to the east between the Evolve and Ultra towers, and eventually extend further east through to Civic Plaza as more projects develop. A green-roof is also proposed as part of the plan on top of the low-rise podium.

Additionally as part of the project, Central Avenue will see its remaining south half dedicated and constructed west of 133 St for the length of the site, inclusive of a separated bike lane to match the already constructed north side of the street.

Having now received 3rd Reading, the project can be expected to receive Final Approval within a year, and completion likely by 2024-5.

For more on the project https://www.surrey.ca/bylawsandcouncillibrary/PLR_7918-0125-00.pdf