OHL, Canada Basketball may anchor huge new Burlington development

Burlington council is eyeing a new development on King Road, just south of Highway 403. If approved, it could be the site of a new arena, new homes and retail space. There's a lot of excitement from the community and key stakeholders in this plan, and if approved by council later today, the next steps would be to move into the due diligence phase. There, they will explore the relationships with the groups who want to be part of the redevelopment with an ambitious opening date set for 2030. Right now the land is untouched, and bordered by Aldershot GO station, Highway 403, the Lakeshore West Line and King Road. The proposal includes an event centre supported by Hamilton's TD Coliseum operator Oak View Group, which could include an arena, aquatics facilities, community programming space and an event plaza. Alinea Land Corporation says the facility could serve as a catalyst for housing development, investment and economic activity across the site. The broader development plan includes 26 development blocks and would be built in phases. Alinea says the project could help address housing demand while providing recreation, cultural and community amenities in west Burlington. The company says it has engaged the Oak View Group, operator of Hamilton's TD Coliseum, and is exploring opportunities with the Ontario Hockey League. It says Canada Basketball has also expressed support for the arena concept and potential hosting opportunities, while the YMCA of Hamilton, Burlington and Brantford has shown interest in community programming. The cost of the project is not finalized, but a city report says early estimates for an arena or event centre would cost anywhere from $150 million to $300 million.