Ottawa city staff are recommending approval for a Stittsville skyscraper project that, although scaled back, would still be the tallest building in the borough if built.

The project includes two buildings on Hazeldean Road, west of Carp Road: one 12 storeys and one 21 storeys, with a total of 431 apartments.

The original plan included nine- and 25-storey buildings, but it sparked a public backlash. A virtual consultation in February drew about 300 people, and more than 300 written objections were submitted. More than 700 people signed a petition opposing the project.

A report to the committee on Sept. 11 said the developer agreed to reduce the height of one building from 25 to 21 storeys, but increase the other from nine to 12 storeys.

Stittsville Borough Councilor Glen Gower expressed concerns, stressing that such buildings could put pressure on local infrastructure.

City officials say the project complies with the Official Plan, adding that failure to approve it could lead to legal risks, including the need to bring in outside experts.

Anastasia Chupina