London Construction - Development News Thread #1

[MolsonExport]

Feb 06, 2008 07:00 ET
Cineplex Entertainment Announces New Cineplex Odeon Theatre in London, Ontario
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Feb. 6, 2008) - Cineplex Entertainment (TSX:CGX.UN) is pleased to announce the development of a new eight-screen Cineplex Odeon theatre to open in London, Ontario. Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2008 with a targeted opening in late fall. Located near the intersection of Wonderland Road South and Viscount Road at the Westmount Shopping Centre, the theatre will occupy approximately 31,000 square feet of space and will offer a first class entertainment experience, replacing the existing six-screen cinema currently located in the mall.

"We are delighted to be announcing this new project located at Westmount Shopping Centre in London," said Pat Marshall, Vice President Communications and Investor Relations, Cineplex Entertainment. "As part of the modernization of the Westmount shopping centre, this new theatre will offer area residents and shoppers the best entertainment options available. With more than 1,300 luxury high back seats, the complex will feature the latest in digital film presentation and digital sound technologies."

"We are looking forward to working with Cineplex Entertainment on this project," said Michael Dobrijevic, Senior Vice President, Development & Leasing, Bentall Retail LP. "We believe that London deserves a new state-of-the-art theatre and this dynamic entertainment complex will become a true destination for residents and visitors to this area and will also be an integral feature to the revitalization of Westmount Mall."

The new theatre will feature all stadium seating, wall-to-wall, giant, curved screens; large, luxurious seats with ample legroom; Digital DLP projection systems and Dolby Digital Surround Sound. The spacious lobby will feature a Family Entertainment Centre that can be accessed without a movie ticket. The refreshment selection is very broad and will include all the standard movie fare including popcorn, soft drinks and a variety of other offerings sure to satisfy everyone's appetite.

About Cineplex Entertainment LP:

Cineplex Entertainment LP owns leases or has a joint-venture interest in 131 theatres with 1,327 screens serving approximately 60 million guests annually. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, Cineplex Entertainment LP is the largest motion picture exhibitor in Canada operating the following brands: Cineplex Odeon, Galaxy, Famous Players, Coliseum, Colossus, SilverCity, Cinema City and Scotiabank Theatres. The units of Cineplex Galaxy Income Fund, which owns approximately 75.7% of Cineplex Entertainment LP, are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol CGX.UN). For more information, visit www.cineplex.com

[ldoto]

HA! you Beat me to it, MolsonExport! What are you doing posting something from the lfpress!!!!!

[ldoto]

The Arts Project has given artists a well-used outlet and the downtown some pizzazz, but its future is uncertain without a strong business plan.


It was once hailed as a downtown saviour, along with the John Labatt Centre and London Central Library.

Now, the Arts Project is the one that needs to be saved.

Faced with a growing deficit and little financial aid, the Dundas Street non-profit gallery and performing arts centre is sinking.

The Arts Project, also known as TAP, went public with its financial distress last month, appealing for a $50,000 lifeline from the city. It got $10,000, contingent upon raising some sponsorship money.

The London Downtown Business Association kicked in another $10,000.
"It was a definite cry for help," says Franck Arroyas, TAP board chairperson. "The struggle continues."


The Arts Project is an inviting place. The worn hardwood floors and plaster dust are indications this place is used.

"I really admire what they do," says former staff member Connie Galera as she browses the art. "They help young aspiring artists and professional artists."

Also in the gallery is Oswaldo DeLeon Kantule, curator of the current show, Colores de Latin America. Its bold Latin colours are striking against the dreary winter day.

He worries about the Arts Project's future. "I called Sandra (De Salvo, the interim manager) and said, 'What can I do?' This is the only place some people have to exhibit."

The Arts Project is an escape from shop windows ads, boarded-up store fronts and bleak reality of homelessness on Dundas Street. It celebrates our city and comments on the issues of the day.

But if it wishes to survive, it must get more business-like.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation gave TAP a two-year $100,000 operating grant in 2000 when it moved to this location and another $130,000 in 2002. The funds were supposed to give the centre time to become self-sufficient.
"From there we struggled along," Arroyas recalls.

Despite more than 30,000 visitors annually and bookings set a year in advance, revenue does not keep pace with expenditures.

TAP receives between $13,000 and $15,000 yearly from the city, but Arroyas says most of it is used to pay property taxes.

It also receives revenue from groups using the facility, but not enough, Controller Gord Hume suggests -- $75 per week for its lower gallery space, $250 for the main floor, $575 for the theatre.

A $33,000 bill for roof repairs this year added up to big trouble for the Arts Project.

Hume and others have suggested ways to generate revenue and shake things up:

- Increasing rental fees and pricing structure.
- Taking a cut of art sales.
- Showing corporations how TAP benefits the downtown and how companies can benefit from associating with TAP.
- New blood on the board.
- Having companies pay for use of their name on TAP.

[MolsonExport]

Originally Posted by ldoto

HA! you Beat me to it, MolsonExport! What are you doing posting something from the lfpress!!!!!

I dunno. But I used to live across from the Westmount Mall, before moving to Hyde Park, so I guess I am still somewhat interested in the place. Seems such a shame that a decent mall has fallen so low.

[QuantumLeap]

Development on Beaverbrook (South) to Proceed
A demolition permit for property between Riverside and Oxford will likely be approved tomorrow at Planning Committee. This will continue the process leading towards construction of two five-floor apartment buildings on Beaverbrook. These buildings have many innovative design features including reduced setbacks, on-street parking and grade-level townhouses.

[ldoto]

good news!!!!!

[QuantumLeap]

Apparently, the site I mentioned above was bought by Old Oak, which may mean that the nice buildings proposed by Mr. David Cody and designed by TRM architects may give way to more concrete boxes in seas of parking.

[ldoto]

Yes you are right!!!
http://www.trmarchitect.com/proj-c+r.html

[ldoto]

News Release
2008-02-12


Dominion Automobile Association Announces Major Expansion in London

60th Anniversary Celebrations Underway with 60 new employees to be added in the next 60 days.

(London, Ontario, February 12, 2008)



Dominion Automobile Association Limited (DAA) announced today a major expansion of its business operations in London. In the upcoming 60 days, DAA will add 60 employees to meet its continual growth demands. DAA is one of Canada's largest auto clubs serving more than 3 million drivers from across the country.

With the addition of several new national accounts and contracts, DAA is adding the employees in a number of business areas as part of the new expansion. DAA's head office located in London, has experienced exceptional growth over the recent years. Founded in 1948 by Londoner Robert Trollope, DAA has grown extensively culminating with its merger with one of the largest auto clubs in the United States, Drive America, last fall. This merger provides members of both companies with seamless service wherever they drive in Canada and the United States.

Dominion Automobile Association is excited with its latest expansion and is making significant investments in new resources in its London facilities and training centre. This latest growth will support the many automobile manufacturers and financial institutions across North America that DAA provides service to.

"We are pleased to announce such a significant expansion to our business in London" said company CEO and President Michael Meagher. "London has got a great workforce. We have won our business competing against firms from across North America, and it is our people who have made the difference." DAA Vice-President Jackie McTaggart added, "DAA has proven over the years that the firm really knows how to treat both customers and employees well. DAA's current employees have been with the firm an average of 9 years while the average tenure of our members is 18 years."

DAA provides service through its North American network of more than 8,000 automotive service firms ensuring quick response 24 hours per day. London Mayor Anne Marie DeCicco-Best was delighted with the confirmation of the expansion plans. "Dominion Automobile Association has been a long-standing name brand in London and is a very successful company recognized across the country. London is known as a great city for success and growth of business and the expansion of DAA is another strong example of success here. With London as the head office of DAA, we are excited that they are continuing to expand across North America and raising the profile of the city."

DAA will be adding the 60 new positions in a number of areas to support the continued growth of the company including customer service representatives, IT specialists and implementation managers. "DAA is a wonderful London success story," said Peter White, President of the London Economic Development Corporation. "Their commitment to the city and continued expansion of a business founded in London and so well known across Canada is great for our business community. The growth of the DAA over the past few years has been exceptional and the list of Canadian corporations they support shows the strength of their service offerings. We are looking forward to the next 60 years with DAA in London."

DAA has begun filling positions with the first 40 interviews just completed. For those interested in the company, more information DAA and the new positions, as well as the on-line application form, can be found at their website at www.daa.ca. This is the first announcement of what will be a banner anniversary celebration for Dominion Automobile Association.

DAA Background;

DAA is a national company servicing over 3 million clients with representatives in every province across Canada.
DAA and Drive America merged in the fall of 2007 to create a seamless service offering for drivers across North America.
DAA provides support to numerous automotive manufacturers and financial institutions under their respective name-brands.
DAA is located in London, Ontario in the downtown core area.
DAA's customer service centre operates from a high-tech centre offering support services 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.
Employment Background;

DAA has a strong employee job history with average 15 year tenure of full-time staff and 9 year tenure of total staff (full and part time).
DAA offers both full and part-time opportunities
Contact DAA at www.daa.ca - careers, or [email protected].
Media Contact;

President and CEO Michael Meagher
Phone: 519-646-2480
Email: [email protected]

[ldoto]

There has been alot of new expansion building downtown for new office space like.

London-based credit union has bought a five-storey office building at 217 York St. from Z Group for $9 million.Libro Financial has purchased the former post office at 217 York St. for $9 million and will consolidate its head-office operations there from two other downtown locations.




Today a major expansion of its business operations in London
Downtown London from their new office on the fourth floor at 195 Dufferin Ave.In the upcoming 60 days, DAA will add 60 employees to meet its continual growth demands. DAA is one of Canada's largest auto clubs serving more than 3 million drivers from across the country.

[QuantumLeap]

Ldoto, sorry, you had the wrong TRM architects. Here is their page. www.atrm.on.ca

Check out for newcomers, and those who missed it, their concept for Ivest (now Farhi's) Richmond block facing Victoria Park.

http://www.atrm.on.ca/residential_06b.html

[ldoto]

Wow that is a very modern in design it looks like it sould be from L.A or dwell.com This is my style

[ldoto]

Wed, February 13, 2008

London’s industrial market remains healthy despite a climbing vacancy rate, says one London brokerage firm. The rate, which measures the amount of space available in industrial plants, climbed two full percentage points in the final quarter of 2007, to 7.3 per cent, compared to 5.3 per cent at the end of 2006, states a report released Tuesday by C.B. Richard Ellis.

“This is a snapshot of the city’s economy and I think it looks pretty healthy,” said senior vice-president Peter Whatmore.

The rise is not a result of industrial plants closing, but an indication more space has come on the market through new construction — a positive sign for the manufacturing sector, he said.

“There is a lot of construction activity and that is good news. There has been a tremendous upsurge in industrial,” said Whatmore. “Plant closings have not really come into play, that will happen this year.”




Two looming plant closures, Siemens and Vytec, will add more than 400,000 square feet to the market in 2008 states the report.

New construction includes: — Two buildings by O.R.E. Development Corp. at Highway 401 and Highbury Avenue, valued at more than $25 million.

— ING Real Estate Canada is building a $5-million facility at Highway 401, near Wellington Road.

— CEVA Logistics Canada, formerly TNT Logistics, is moving from its Highbury Avenue site to a 265,000-square-foot building on eight hectares (20 acres) of land in the Skyway Industrial Park, an investment of more than $10 million

— CS Automotive Tubing Inc. is building a new 54,000-square-foot plant at 2400 Innovation Drive.

Steve Glickman, director of business retention for the London Economic Development Corp. agreed the vacancy rate rise is also positive because it means leasing companies believe they can attract business to London. “It is the fact inventory levels are increasing that is causing this. We have more offerings here and we have industries using their own network and resources to attract companies to London,” said Glickman.

The forecast for this year also has the industrial sector remaining stable, he added.

“Our forecast is it will remain healthy subject to the adjustments that are happening in the automotive sector,” said Whatmore.

The report also states retail vacancies are down because more store spaces have been rented in the city, he said.

The vacancy rate for the last quarter of 2007 is 7.9 per cent, compared to 8.7 per cent for the last quarter of 2006. There were gains across the city including downtown, which saw a more than two per cent drop in store vacancies from 14.5 per cent to 12.2 per cent.

The downtown figures has also been helped by Galleria coming off the list as retail space because it is now considered office use. Of the approximately 600,000 square feet at Galleria, about 300,000 is office, the balance is other uses, including retail, a GoodLife Fitness club, schools and other services and agencies. Only about 10 per cent of its total space, about 60,000 square feet, is vacant, said Whatmore. “I am very upbeat,” he said of the core. “It is a long road to recovery and we are making strides.” Last month the city reported a record was set for industrial development in 2007 with building permits worth $68.7-million issued for construction in the manufacturing sector. The industrial sector in 2007 saw 16 permits issued for new buildings, 17 for additions and 55 to existing businesses for alterations. In 2006 the city issued $67 million in industrial permits.

[flar]

RE: groceries downtown
I'm a little late to the conversation, but when I lived in downtown London I picked up lots of stuff at the market, but my grocery shopping was done at the ValuMart in Wortley Village. It was a crappy walk in the winter. I remember them threatening to close it, I hope it's still in business.

[SlickFranky]

I shop at that ValuMart all time (2 blocks from home), so you'll be glad to hear it's definitely still open...and consistently busy. I would love to see something like that set up shop downtown. I'm thinking NW corner of King and Clarence. That parking lot is totally unnecessary. In a perfect world that lot would also have a residential tower, and a well kept walkway connecting King and Dundas...but I'm not holding my breath.

[MolsonExport]

Is there not a ValuMart on Oxford, just a bit west of Richmond?

[flar]

^^yes, but I lived on King so it was a shorter walk to Wortley

Good to hear it's still going. Both of those ValuMarts are tiny grocery stores surviving in an era of monster formats.

[QuantumLeap]

Molson, thanks for changing your picture!
Also, the Valu-Marts at Oxford and Wortley are alright (I live roughly equidistant), especially if you have a bus pass. But many parts of the core are not as well served (eg East of Wellington). The market and Valu-Mart are both overpriced, and the VM offers a pretty lousy selection.

[ldoto]

Update!!!
Thu, February 14, 2008


Just a few weeks after Locust Mount was toppled comes word another historically significant building might be saved.
At least part of it.



An architect's report says the front of the old theatre warrants preservation and restoration.


A city-hired architect has concluded the front of downtown's Capitol Theatre is in good shape, laying the groundwork for using tax dollars to subsidize its restoration.

"It's pretty amazing," Controller Bud Polhill said yesterday. "There may be a premium to pay but there will be a great benefit, too."

Built in 1920 and originally known as the Allen, the Capitol has been, in recent years, a poster child for the struggle to preserve heritage in London.

Theatre owner Shmuel Farhi demolished its rear and warned he'd complete the job, leaving a gap on a key but struggling stretch of Dundas Street, unless the city worked with him to preserve it.

After months of talks, the city struck a tentative deal: if Farhi preserved the heritage facade, the city would lease 5,000 square feet of office space for 10 years.



But the deal had a caveat -- an architect would first need to check if the facade, long-covered up, was in decent enough shape to save.

An unveiling in December found the facade to be in good condition.

"This facade warrants preservation and restoration, and it is feasible and realistic from a structural point of view," architect Allan Avis wrote to city officials.

"This is going to be a real gem for London on Dundas," Controller Gord Hume said after board of control recommended staff try to finalize a lease deal with Farhi.

So far the terms discussed have been reasonable, the city's finance chief, Vic Cote, told board of control.

But while the restoration of the Capitol's limestone facade seems feasible, the adjacent building, also owned by Farhi, is more problematic, Avis concluded.

The Bowles building, built around 1928 and used as a restaurant and later by a jeweller, has more than 400 terra-cotta tiles and as many as half of them are damaged.

Repairing the tiles may leave a patchwork effect and replacing them may damage adjacent tiles, Avis wrote.

The deal with Farhi for office space was pursued without seeking competitive bids -- council decided it was essential to try to save the theatre.

Staff has estimated a 10-year lease would cost between $1.15 million and $1.6 million.

Farhi also won a competition to house 20,000 square feet of civic offices downtown in the second and third floors of the Citi Financial building at the southwest corner of Queens Avenue and Clarence Street.

[QuantumLeap]

Great to see about the Capitol. Together with the Bowles, they really look striking. I hope they will save the Bowles facade. I also hope that the 5000 sq ft that they are leasing are streetfront-style services, rather than just plain office space.
Also, word on the UWO website today is that a new extension to the UCC worth $21 million will start construction soon.