City Hall's Density Push Sparks Dispute Over 'Inappropriate' Duplex

A downtown couple is fighting the fallout of Toronto's aggressive housing strategy after the city approved a four-storey duplex immediately adjacent to their three-story Victorian home, according to CBC Toronto.

Bill and Carol Martin, who have lived on Strachan Avenue for nearly 50 years, say the new structure—which replaces a one-storey cottage owned by Don Allen—will tower over their home. City documents indicate the planned duplex will exceed 15 metres in height, compared to the Martins' roughly 11-metre residence. Because the project was granted minor variances by the Toronto and East York Committee of Adjustment in late 2023, the building will abut the rear half of the Martins' home, completely blocking one window.

Furthermore, the Martins claim their daily use of their fireplace will end because provincial rules require chimneys to be at least two feet above neighbouring structures. While Don Allen's architect offered to replace the lost window and provide compensation "within reason" for chimney renovations, Bill Martin told CBC Toronto the couple rejected the offer, arguing the phrase would not cover the extensive work required to meet code.

This conflict is a byproduct of a city-wide effort to meet a provincial mandate of 285,000 new homes by 2032. In May 2023, the city allowed multiplexes of up to four units without rezoning; later, six-plexes were permitted in certain areas. City statistics show 8,600 multiplex units have been completed since 2022, with nearly 3,000 more underway.

While architect Dan Cowling noted that Allen complied with all rules, he told CBC Toronto that the city is the party making the mistake. Real estate broker Justin Bregman told the outlet that such developments are "definitely affecting value ... big time" for neighbouring homeowners due to loss of privacy and sunlight.