1763 Bellevue Avenue: A Community-Focused Opportunity for Ambleside

MASONIC HALL

1763 Bellevue Avenue: A Community-Focused Opportunity for Ambleside

Many people know 1763 Bellevue Avenue as the old Masonic Hall. It’s been part of Ambleside for a long time, but the building is aging and no longer meets the needs of a modern community. These days, it’s being used as a private gym, so there’s little public access or space for community activities. While it is zoned community use, it doesn’t currently provide the kind of flexible, accessible space the neighbourhood could really use.

Under the current zoning, very little can happen on this site. The current zoning allows it to be redeveloped as a 2 storey residential only building of up to 6 units with no community use. That means no real opportunity to expand programming, create new community space, or add other uses that could bring life to the area.

The proposed redevelopment takes a more balanced approach. It would include new residential homes, which are very much needed in our commercial area, retail or office space at street level, and a much larger, purpose-built community space. The plan includes roughly 6,800 square feet of dedicated community space, which is comparable to what the site currently offers. This space would be modern, flexible, and accessible for arts, culture, meetings, local programs, and other community activities.

Why the ADBIA supports this proposal

It grows community space instead of losing it. The proposal ensures that Ambleside keeps a central hub for community use and makes it much more functional.

• • It keeps the village vibrant. Shops and offices at street level, combined with people living above, help create a busier, safer, and more welcoming street throughout the day.
• • It supports local businesses. More residents and visitors mean more customers for cafés, shops, and services in Ambleside.
• • It makes better use of a central site. This is a key location in the town centre, and thoughtful redevelopment can ensure it benefits the whole neighbourhood rather than staying underused.

What happens next

The project is currently in the early stages of review. Before any rezoning is approved, the public has a chance to learn about the plans and share feedback. For more information, you can visit 1763bellevue.com or stop by the public information drop-in meeting on Wednesday, January 14th from 5 pm – 7 pm at the Masonic Hall site.

This is an opportunity for Ambleside to gain modern, expanded community space while adding homes and services that support a lively and connected town centre.