Redevelopment on horizon for Eastgate Square

A Toronto-based private investment firm says it has plans to redevelop Eastgate Square Mall into a “reimagined and redesigned” community hub.

In a media release Tuesday, Harrison Equity Partners, in collaboration with Retail Ventures CND Inc., announced their intentions to reshape the 18-hectare east Hamilton site into an “accessible and affordable destination” that will include a mix of retail and residential spaces.

The Spectator reached out to both of the organizations involved but did not receive a response to questions before the deadline.

Few details were released about the plans of the redevelopment that will mark the end of the line for the incoming Hamilton LRT — which will connect Eastgate Square to McMaster University on the other side of the lower city.

But according to the release, the development will be designed to “take advantage of the large, existing and well-defined site,” which is bounded by Queenston Road, Centennial Parkway, Delawana Drive and Kenora Avenue.

Those plans also include adding new shops and services to cater to the community’s needs, as well as providing “numerous and varied housing options.”

Speaking to The Spectator, Mayor Fred Eisenberger said the proposed plans for the retail centre is “completely in line” with the city’s future vision of what the site could become.

“We’re seeing shrinking retail and a high demand for higher-density residential,” said Eisenberger. “It’s a clear and present opportunity, driven by the LRT and the nearness to GO transit … that they think will be a positive benefit for the redevelopment of Eastgate.”

Eisenberger said the group behind the redevelopment haven’t submitted a specific proposal or timeline as of Tuesday afternoon. However, he did confirm that they have met with city officials.

He noted that the development plans could make use of the vacant portion that once housed Sears, as well as its large, wraparound parking lot along Queenston Road for residential units.

“They’re looking at maintaining some of the focus of the mall as it exists,” said Eisenberger, pointing to the anchor retail tenants including Fortinos, Shoppers Drug Mart and the LCBO.

‘‘ They’re looking at maintaining some of the focus of the mall as it exists.

MAYOR FRED EISENBERGER