OLT Tribunal Update: Proposed Development at 32, 36 and 38 Grand Avenue

As a result of the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) proceeding, the City of Cambridge is providing an update on the proposed redevelopment of 32, 36 and 38 Grand Avenue, which has been under OLT adjudication since September 2025.  

The developer and the City have reached a settlement as the only parties to the hearing. The City recently met with area residents to share details of a revised development proposal. If no settlement had been reached, the OLT would decide on whether the original 28 storey application would be permitted or not.

The revised proposal includes a reduction in height from 28 to 22 storeys, increases setbacks and stepbacks, improves heritage protection, enhances streetscape features, and implements design changes intended to reduce impacts on neighbouring properties. These elements were not included in the original application.

"We wanted to ensure residents had an opportunity to hear directly from us, ask questions, and better understand what this updated proposal means for the neighbourhood," said Brynn Nheiley, Director of Planning. "Sharing this information helps keep the community informed about the changes that have been made and the steps that remain in the review process."

The OLT scheduled the settlement proposal to be held on October 27, 2026. If approved, the development would still require approval from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Grand River Conservation Authority, as well as Site Plan Approval and Building Permits from the City to address technical matters and finalize detailed design, before construction could proceed.

The City remains committed to ensuring the proposal is thoroughly reviewed and that future development is compatible with the surrounding neighbourhood, balancing community concerns. Updated technical reports and plans will be required as part of the future Site Plan application for these lands. 

For more information about OLT proceedings visit the OLT website.

-30-