WINNIPEG — The city is still waiting on a permit application and building drawings from the proposed SkyCity project in downtown Winnipeg.
A construction permit for the site recently expired, forcing the project’s developer, Fortress Real Developments, to re-apply for another permit.
“To date, neither a permit application nor final building drawings have been received by the city for the SkyCity project,” said City of Winnipeg spokeswoman Allisa Clark.
Fortress will now have to re-apply for a new permit.
“The next step for Fortress is to apply for a building permit by submitting plans and full documentation for review by the city,” said Clark.
Fortress spokeswoman Natasha Alibhai said they were made aware the permit had expired, but plans are still moving ahead for construction in spring 2017.
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“Permit drawings will be submitted in full in the new year,” said Alibhai in an email statement.
Work is currently underway for the project, as crews dig on the site off of Graham Ave. to test rock quality for foundation.
Alibhai said 50 per cent of the units in the 45 story condo building have been sold and a 2019 move-in date is still on track.
“Fortress will continue to focus on sales at SkyCity and construction financing discussions are underway. We anticipate, first occupancies of residential units will begin towards the end of 2019.”
CentreVenture sold one of the properties being used for the project near the St. Regis Hotel.
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President and CEO of CentreVenture Angela Mathieson said she expects shovels to be in the ground by spring of 2017. If no progress is made, CebtreVenture will re-evaluate the situation.
“It would be CentreVenture’s decision at that time whether or not we would extend the timeline. Or else we would basically re-purchase the property. And then there are some penalties involved as an incentive to ensure that the developer does fulfill its obligations,” said Mathieson.
CentreVenture and the city said they are open to working with Fortress to begin construction in 2017.
Alibhai said Fortress is confident that plans will proceed on schedule.
“The full permits will be pulled when we are preparing for construction in the spring.”