The Goldberg Group, a Toronto developer, withdrew its proposal to build a 16-storey mixed-use building on the southeast corner of College and Bathurst Streets, currently occupied by Sneaky Dee's live music venue.
The proposal, which included 130 one-bedroom units, 52 two-bedroom units, and 21 three-bedroom units, as well as non-residential space for retail and music venues, had been met with resistance from the local community, who were concerned about the potential loss of the beloved music venue.
The Goldberg Group's decision to withdraw the proposal comes after a letter from the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) made it clear that they, not the numbered company submitting the development application, owned the parcel of land at 429 College Street.
RBC's letter stated that the development scheme could not proceed without the ownership of the parcel, effectively killing the plan.
The battle to save Sneaky Dee's has been ongoing since November 2020, when the Toronto and East York community council received the original application to permit a 13-storey mixed-use building.
The music venue, which has been a staple of the Toronto alternative scene since 1987, has hosted numerous famous bands, including the Barenaked Ladies, Broken Social Scene, Feist, and Arcade Fire.
Councillor Josh Matlow expressed his support for the campaign to save Sneaky Dee's, stating that it is more than just a bar, but a cultural institution that is an integral part of the city's fabric.
With the proposal withdrawn, Sneaky Dee's can continue to be a part of Toronto's cultural scene, providing a space for music, community, and delicious food, including its famous nachos.
The community's efforts to save the venue have been successful, and it will continue to be a beloved part of Toronto's landscape.
