From Stalemate to Solution

Challenge

AMRIK Developments owned a vacant former school site in Inglewood where previous rezoning attempts had been unsuccessful. AMRIK continued to explore options for the site’s future, but initial discussions signaled limited support from the City, creating uncertainty around next steps.

Approach

Situate stepped in to help AMRIK think differently about what was possible. We developed a strategy to connect two seemingly unrelated sites, linking the donation of the Inglewood property to a proposal to purchase City-owned land in Schonsee, next to land AMRIK already owned. We also engaged key City branches and councillors, coordinated community support, and prepared a competitive proposal that positioned the Inglewood site as a long-term public benefit, setting the stage for a successful land swap.

Outcome

City Council approved the sale of the Schonsee site, and AMRIK’s proposal was selected. The Inglewood site will be retained as open space for the community and neighbouring school, while new housing will be developed in Schonsee. By connecting two sites through a single strategy, the land swap demonstrates how creative thinking can unlock solutions that respond to both local needs and broader city-building goals.