Community Development Updates - November 2025

EHON (Expanding Housing Options in Neighbourhoods)

The EHON PH25.3 meeting in Toronto resulted in the Planning and Housing Committee recommending to remove a key part of the proposal that would have allowed small retail and service businesses in the interiors of residential neighborhoods.

For Guildwood Village, this means the controversial permissions for internal neighbourhood streets were paused, while a separate, related decision regarding commercial zoning along the major streets like Guildwood Parkway will be considered by City Council. 

A big thanks to the many residents who took the time to respond to surveys, send letters, alongside the GVCA and make their voices heard.

Outcome of the EHON PH25.3 meeting

• Neighbourhood interiors: The committee removed the proposed zoning by-law amendment that would have allowed small-scale retail, services, and eating establishments to open in the interior parts of neighborhoods. This means these businesses will not be permitted on smaller, interior streets unless the City Council decides to reconsider it later.
  

• Major streets: The committee recommended moving forward with zoning amendments for Major Streets, which will be debated by City Council in the coming weeks. Map 3 on which Guildwood Parkway’s “Major Street” designation is based on is under review. Stay tuned for more details.
  

• Home Occupations: The committee also recommended moving forward with by-laws related to Home Occupations. 
  

How This Affects Guildwood Village

• Protection for neighbourhood interiors: The removal of the neighbourhood interior permissions means that the character of residential streets within Guildwood Village is more likely to be preserved, as the proposed changes would not apply to them.
  

• Ongoing concerns about major streets: The designation of Guildwood Parkway as an "Avenue" means that the new Major Streets permissions could still apply, which could lead to more commercial and mid-rise development in that specific area. This remains a concern for residents who want to maintain the existing low-rise character of their community.
  

• Future City Council vote: The final decisions about commercial development on Major Streets and Home Occupations still need to be made by City Council at its next meeting. 
  

Extendicare Re-development Plan

Extendicare is planning to redevelop its Guildwood long-term care (LTC) home as part of a larger project with Extendicare Scarborough to provide 320 upgraded beds in a new, 9 Story modern facility built to “current design standards.” 

Redevelopment Details:

• Facility Size: The proposed plan is for a new, modern 512-bed long-term care facility located at 60 Guildwood Parkway.
  

• Modern Design: The new facility is part of Extendicare's plan to replace older infrastructure with modern homes designed for improved functionality, safety, and resident comfort. These typically feature private bedrooms, enhanced activity areas, and secure access to outdoor courtyards.
  

• Timeline: Construction was originally expected to start between Fall 2022 and Winter 2024. The project is now in the planning stages with the City of Toronto.
  

• Bed Allocation: The project involves upgrading existing beds from the current Guildwood and Scarborough homes into a combined, modern 320-bed capacity, with additional bed licenses potentially allocated by the government to reach the 512-bed proposal.
  

The application is submitted, details, key dates, reports and other documentation can be found here: https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/application-details/?id=5716104&pid=55990&title=60-GUILDWOOD-PKWY

Please submit any questions or concerns you have to both councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca and president@guildwood.ca.