Mr. Dales

The applicant requested a review of a TLAB decision that refused seven variances to permit the construction of a new three-storey detached dwelling.

The applicant alleged that the presiding Member violated the rules of natural justice and procedural fairness and made errors of law and fact, including by providing insufficient reasons, manufacturing evidence, and incorrectly applying policies related to laneway suites and infill development.

The TLAB Chair dismissed the review request, finding that the Member provided sufficient reasons, properly considered the context of the application, and made no errors of law or fact that would warrant cancelling the decision.

The applicant appealed the Committee of Adjustment's refusal of variances required to build a new three-storey house on a newly severed laneway lot.

The key variance sought was an increase in Floor Space Index from the permitted 1.0 to 1.87.

The Toronto Local Appeal Body dismissed the appeal, finding that the proposed density and massing did not respect and reinforce the prevailing physical character of the neighbourhood, failed to meet the Official Plan's material consistency test, and did not maintain the intent of the Zoning By-law regarding laneway housing.