A former bungalow in Toronto’s Leaside neighbourhood has sat vacant for six years, with the homeowner maintaining that it is slated for conversion into a multi‑unit building, but construction activity has been intermittent.
The property has remained empty since around 2020, and no permanent structure has replaced the original house. Permits for a multiplex were filed, yet the site shows only occasional work, leaving the lot undeveloped.
Residents and members of the Leaside neighbourhood association have expressed frustration over the prolonged inactivity. They note that the dormant lot detracts from the streetscape and raises concerns about safety and property values in the area.
The homeowner attributes the delays to typical setbacks in redevelopment projects, citing the need for approvals and coordination with contractors. However, the lack of visible progress has sparked calls for clearer timelines from the owner.
City officials have not provided a public update on the specific schedule for the multiplex, and the municipal planning department’s records show the application remains pending further review. In the meantime, the vacant lot continues to occupy a prime block in a densely built neighbourhood.
If the conversion proceeds, the proposed multiplex would add several residential units to the area, aligning with Toronto’s broader goal of increasing housing supply. Until work resumes in earnest, the empty bungalow stands as a reminder of stalled development in Leaside.
Neighbourhood meetings held earlier this year addressed the issue, with participants urging the homeowner to engage more actively with the planning process and to provide the community with a realistic completion date.