Base31 envisions a neighbourhood with amenities at former Loch Sloy

Administrator | Mar 21, 2023 | Comments 0

Base31 – formerly known as Loch Sloy Business Park and Airport, ‘The Heights’ and home of the Royal Airforce’s No. 31 Bombing and Gunnery School – may become a community again.

Monday, Base31 officials shared the beginnings of an ambitious vision for the 750-acre property – noting that so far, only about 10 per cent is being used for about 75 commercial and industrial operations, and the revitalized halls hosting concerts, festivals and events since last summer.

As well as plans to unveil more renovated buildings, art facilities, food venues and concerts for this year, Tim Jones, Base31 CEO, and Alexandra De Gasperis, vice-president of DECO Communities, spoke to the beginnings of a decades-long vision to develop a ‘Neighbourhood Plan’.

Soon, they note public consultation is to begin to explore the creation of a range of housing in neighbourhoods that could include retail, restaurants, places to work and create, parks, trails and recreation areas.

“We understand there is a need for more housing in the County. Our aim is to provide housing solutions to meet the needs of a wide range of income levels, ages, and life stages. We are looking at a mix of unit types, including affordable rental and ownership opportunities, short-term housing for service workers, family sized homes, and homes for seniors. This will be defined together with the County and the community.”

Base31 was purchased in December 2021 by PEC Community Partners, a group of Ontario-based builders which includes Tercot Communities, DECO Communities, Rockport Group, and PEC Placemaking Inc.

Jones noted any development would preserve the history of the site, and continue to tells its many stories. The adjacent airport, he added, continues to be open on a year-by-year basis.

At month-end, Base31 plans to begin engaging the community with the launch of a new website and survey series, followed by workshops and round table discussions over several months.

“Engagement with the local community to help create the vision for the site will be completed in phases and take place over many years, covering a range of topics. This is a phased, multi-year project, and will take many decades to complete. Our aim is to create steady growth over the long term. This is just the beginning of the process, and we look forward to continuing to work with the community as the project evolves.”