A proposal to build a 17-storey condo development in Woodbridge is so controversial that this week alone residents packed city hall and protesters — including former mayor Michael Di Biase — filled the street.

Part of the problem for those living in the Hwy. 7 and Kipling Avenue area is the developer’s request to amend the city’s official plan to allow 17 storeys, instead of 10. Other concerns cited include traffic and safety at what homeowners say is an awkward intersection.

Mr. Di Biase, who lives nearby, said a development of that size is not appropriate for the area.

“Kipling is not a through road and it will never be a through road,” he said, adding the new Vaughan corporate centre is a better location, as it encompasses a 600-hectare area along the Hwy. 7 corridor east of Hwy. 400 sporting offices, homes, pedestrian shopping and entertainment and cultural facilities.

Trimax Developments wants to build a 140-unit development, including a building in which the first of two stories used as commercial space. The company recently put up a condo on the west side of Kipling Avenue just north of Woodbridge Avenue.

“The majority of local residents share the same thoughts I do: no thank you. If this application is approved it will show that you have favoured the developers over the community at large,” resident Nick Manno told politicians at Tuesday’s council meeting.

Homeowner Ron Morro questioned why the developer would propose a building that tall.

“We’re in favour of fair intensification. But it has to be justified,” Mr. Morro said, adding proof of that can be seen where two 10-storey towers were built on Woodstream Boulevard without opposition.

Deb Schulte also spoke out against the development.

“The city spent a tremendous amount of money on a Kipling corridor study. It’s an area that’s special. It (the study) hasn’t envisioned anything like this at all. This is offensive and I hope you guys see it this way,” Ms Schulte said.

Vaughan politician Joyce Frustaglio said she wouldn’t support the proposal in its current form, but asked representatives for the developer about rumours it is already advertising the units.

Rosmarie Humphries, president of Humphries Planning Group Inc. which is representing the developer, said she had no knowledge of that.

A writeup in the Today’s Homes section of various York Region Media Group newspapers dated Nov. 29 to Dec. 12, 2007, asks buyers interested in the condominium to register.

“Hot on the heels of Highlands of Woodbridge, Trimax Developments now offers Volare Condominiums — an exciting, exclusive new building that will rise on the southwest corner of Kipling Avenue and Hwy. 7,” reads the write up.

Mayor Linda Jackson also said she would not support a 17-storey building.

“I think we need to send a resounding no to the applicant,” Ms Jackson said to loud applause. “What we need to do is continue with your community involvement. We all have to be involved in the community and not just this application.”

Councillor Gino Rosati asked Ms Humphries if the developer was willing to dramatically amend its plan to appease the community.

“We do, in fact, want to work with them. We need to know what their issues and concerns are and we will be taking that back. It is my understanding that it was originally submitted for 19 storeys,” Ms Humphries said, rousing jeers and heckles from the crowd.

“The applicant has, in fact, made some changes to the application and will continue to work with the community.”

Council agreed to have the planning department prepare a report and make a recommendation. Another meeting will be held in the evening and prior notice will be given to residents.