A long-standing commercial plaza in South Ajax is slated for demolition to make way for a significant mixed-use residential project. On May 4, 2026, officials confirmed that the Ajax plaza redevelopment on Harwood Avenue South is moving forward following a key council approval. The project will transform the site currently occupied by local businesses such as Petrina’s Billiards and Bridal Desires into a modern residential hub featuring a 12-storey condominium and a dedicated five-storey residence for older adults.
The scope of the development has recently expanded after Petrina Developments Inc. successfully acquired an additional property at 103 Heron Street. This acquisition required a new round of zoning and Official Plan amendments, which were approved to ensure the entire land parcel—including portions of the rear yards on Heron Street—can be integrated into the final design. The 12-storey tower is set to introduce 161 new dwelling units to the area, supported by approximately 600 square metres of ground-floor commercial space to maintain the street’s retail vibrancy.
A critical component of the Ajax plaza redevelopment is the five-storey building specifically designed for older adults. This portion of the project will add 49 specialized units to the town’s housing inventory, addressing a growing need for senior-friendly living options in the downtown core. To accommodate the influx of new residents and shoppers, the developer has proposed three levels of underground parking, a move intended to keep the street-level environment pedestrian-friendly and aesthetically aligned with Ajax’s revitalization goals.
Mayor Shaun Collier has utilized his “strong-mayor powers” to help advance this development through the provincial and municipal pipeline more rapidly. During recent council discussions, representatives from Petrina Developments Inc. indicated that they are seeking a joint venture with a builder to see the project through to completion. If a partnership is not secured, the developer intends to sell the fully approved plan to a builder who can break ground. Final approvals for the refined site plan are expected later this year.
As the Ajax plaza redevelopment enters its next phase, residents can track the project’s progress through the town’s “In My Opinion” (IMO) engagement page. This project represents a shift in the Harwood Avenue corridor toward higher density and mixed-use spaces, reflecting a broader trend across Durham Region to replace aging, low-density commercial plazas with transit-oriented residential communities. For local shoppers and residents, it marks the end of an era for the old plaza and the beginning of a new chapter for downtown Ajax.
