City of Toronto officials say plans for a shelter in New Toronto was halted because the site did not meet  building and environmental assessments after a comprehensive due diligence process.

“The decision not to proceed with the acquisition is a reflection of information gained during the City’s diligence review of the site, including building condition assessments and environmental assessments,” Kris Scheuer, the City’s Senior Communications Coordinator, wrote in an email to the South Etobicoke News to clarify why the project was nixed.

“It was determined that the City would not be able to proceed with the renovation and activation of the site within the Council approved budget and project timeline required for the acquisition,” Scheuer stated. “Please note that the early community engagement had no bearing on the decision to not move forward on the site.”

The New Toronto community is breathing a sigh of relief after the City said it will no longer purchase 2950 and 2970 Lake Shore Blvd. W. for use as a shelter.

Plans are now underway for a nine-storey apartment building to be constructed on the site.