Battalion Square

Challenge

The Griesbach Barracks Physical Training Building faced potential demolition due to restrictive Griesbach Row Housing (GRH) zoning, which only permitted residential development. Without a viable path for adaptive reuse, the site remained underutilized, and initial plans for a new six-storey residential building met community resistance.

Approach

Situate partnered with Beljan Development to rezone the site to General Commercial (CG), enabling adaptive reuse while supporting community-serving businesses. We conducted extensive neighbour communications, including direct mail, site signage, an online survey, and discussions with the Community League. In response to feedback, the proposal was redesigned to preserve the existing structure and focus solely on commercial uses.

Outcome

On November 12, 2024, City Council approved the rezoning, paving the way for Battalion Square—a dynamic commercial hub that preserves heritage while activating the site. The project aligns with Edmonton’s City Plan by supporting walkable communities, transit access, and historic preservation, demonstrating the potential of adaptive reuse to shape Edmonton’s evolving urban landscape.