Windsor's city committee has approved a rezoning application for a large-scale development at 825 Riverside Drive West, the former CKLW and current CBC building site. The decision, made on July 7, 2026, allows the project to move forward to the next stage of municipal review.
Details of the rezoning application
The rezoning application seeks to change the land-use designation from institutional to mixed-use residential and commercial. According to city documents, the proposed development includes multiple high-rise towers with a mix of residential units, retail spaces, and community amenities. The site, located along the Detroit River, has been underutilized since the CBC vacated the building.
“This is a significant step toward revitalizing this prime waterfront property,” said a city planning official. “The project promises to bring new housing and economic opportunities to the area.”
Community and economic impact
The development is expected to include hundreds of residential units, contributing to Windsor's housing supply. It also aims to create jobs during construction and provide long-term retail employment. Local business groups have expressed support, noting the potential to attract more visitors to the Riverside Drive corridor.
“We’ve been waiting for this kind of investment along the waterfront,” said a representative of the Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce. “It aligns with the city’s broader goals for sustainable growth.”
Next steps
The rezoning approval by the committee is a preliminary step. The application will now go before the full city council for a final vote, expected later this month. If approved, the developer will submit detailed site plans for building permits. Construction could begin as early as 2027, pending all approvals.
The former CKLW building has been a landmark in Windsor for decades, housing radio and television studios. The new development marks a shift toward modern mixed-use urban planning along the riverfront.
