Olexa Developments and Shindico’s proposed redevelopment of Winnipeg’s former Canada Packers meat plant has moved forward with help from a city committee.

The Riel community committee approved the developers’ proposal to increase the Water Tower District’s mixed-use project’s multi-family component to 2,000 units from 1,200 suites. The decision likely improves the project’s chances of receiving final approval from city council.

The proposed 165-acre development is located in the St. Boniface area of the Manitoba capital.

“The need for housing is huge in the city of Winnipeg,” said Sandy Shindleman, president and CEO of Shindico, in a news release. “The St. Boniface area has largely been left out of new multi-family development and the Water Tower District can create opportunities for residents and the community to stay in their neighbourhood.”

The Riel community committee also endorsed the developers’ request to increase the multi-family component’s height to 14 storeys from 10.

“Area residents have been very supportive of the development,” said Robert Scaletta, senior vice-president of industrial.

Scaletta also serves as the project’s development manager on behalf of Calgary-based Olexa.

During the Riel committee meeting prior to the vote, he argued that density must be increased to reduce land costs and fulfill the city’s need for affordable housing, CBC reported.

“We are very excited to have passed the first stage of approvals and provide the community with the best possible project,” said Scaletta in the news release.

The Water Tower District project is also slated to include an industrial component situated on 70 acres, along with retail, office and park spaces.

“Sites are shovel-ready and construction will commence this fall,” pending city council’s approval, said Scaletta.

Photo: Olexa Developments