In 2020 the Urban Neighbourhood Development Association (UNDA) in partnership with Cape Breton University (CBU) engaged a multi-disciplinary consultant team jointly led by Urban Strategies to conduct the Tartan Downs Development Plan. The project aspires for the creation of a substantial mixed-use development in the central district of Cape Breton Regional Municipality designed as a new neighbourhood featuring affordable housing, student housing and community inclusion. The related engagement process led by Urban Strategies consulted broadly with a diverse range of stakeholders, community organizations and housing service providers specializing with high-need and oftentimes marginalized clients.
The 24-acre site is a former horse racetrack strategically located near many retail, commercial and recreational amenities as well as within walking distance to transit connecting directly to downtown and Cape Breton University. The development targets for at least 400 affordable units, 35,000 sq. ft. of community space as well as outdoor amenity space within a high-connected, walkable setting.
In partnership with renowned architecture firm MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple, Urban Strategies conducted extensive physical and historic analysis that highly influenced the site’s conceptual framework. By retaining a notion of the former racetrack, the physical development of Tartan Downs will continue to have a lasting impact on Sydney’s rich history.
Key Team Members
