56-home development plan replaces controversial proposal in Mississauga

A new development proposal for 56 homes, which replaced a controversial project, got a green light in Mississauga.

The proposal for the homes at 1720 Sherwood Forrest Circle will likely move ahead after a rezoning and draft plan of subdivision were approved at the Planning and Development Committee this month. The plans will need final approval from council.

Previously owned by the Carmelite Sisters of Canada, a convent and retirement home were on the property dating back to 1952. The retirement home ceased operations in 2015.

The 2019 controversial plan from the Carmelite Sisters included two six-storey buildings to be used as a senior’s rental building and assisted living facility with 322 units and a two-storey building with 26 convent units. But both residents and councillors spoke out against the project saying there were many issues with access, size and character.

The application was cancelled by the Sisters in May of 2023, according to a report to the committee.

Argo Development Corporation purchased the approximately 4.63-hectare property, which is south of Dundas Street West and west of Mississauga Road, from the Carmelite Sisters on July 21, 2023, according to city documents.

The plan from the new owner, Argo Sherwood Forrest Limited, for 56 detached homes on a private condominium road, gained approval during the Sept. 16 Planning and Development Committee meeting.

The development will be on five blocks of land which will include a natural area and buffer, road widening and open space blocks.

Three-storey, detached homes, most with a double-car garages, are proposed for the property.

A diagram shows a proposed design for the new homes.

One resident came forward at the public meeting expressing concern about fencing for privacy for the homes abutting the site and the removal of old trees.

About 62 trees are slated removed but through bylaws, the city will seek 146 replacement trees, said Lucas Petricca, City of Mississauga development planner at the meeting.

After the wide opposition for the previous proposal, Ward 8 Councillor Matt Mahoney said this project is likely best for this property.

“We have really come out of this with the best option that we can for the site, it certainly is a beautiful, beautiful property, which I think will be a benefit for the Sherwood Forest community in general,” said Mahoney.

For more information see the meeting here and the application here.

Lead photo of 1720 Sherwood Forrest Circle: City of Mississauga