A 53-storey Metrotown tower that includes a so-called “poor door” is nearing approval by Burnaby city council.
The development, by Bosa Properties Inc. at 6031 Wilson Ave., would replace a three-storey rental building built in 1964 with 66 units.
The highrise project includes a total of 486 residential units, with 416 market strata units, one Canada Mortgage Housing Corp. rental median studio apartment, and three inclusionary rental studio units rented at 20 per cent below the CMHC median (the median is $1,385 in Central Park/Metrotown).
The tower also includes 66 non-market replacement units to account for the demolition of the existing three-storey building.
But there would be separate entrances for strata and rental units, with strata residents entering on Wilson Avenue and renters entering at James Street.
Burnaby resident Reinhard Schauer referred to it as a “poor door” in a letter to council for the development’s June 28 public hearing.
He noted the development “proposes segregated amenities and a side entrance for non-market renters at James St.”
Strata residents will “have access to a gym and fitness space, a hot tub and cold-plunge pool and relaxation area,” according to the staff report, as well as guest suites, a “Zen garden” and other outdoor seating areas.
Strata residents also have access to a co-working space and lounge.
Renters have access to a lobby with a rental office, a multi-purpose amenity room, and a shared rooftop terrace with a play area for children which is directly beside the strata-only rooftop gardens.
There are 512 parking spaces proposed, with 42 of those for the rental units, and 1,070 bicycle parking spots.
A public hearing was held on June 28, and it will go to third reading at council Nov. 21.
The development will have to be reviewed by council at least once more before it is approved.
