← The Big Story
How the condo amenity wars are changing Canadian cities artwork

How the condo amenity wars are changing Canadian cities

The Big Story
E24820:44
Play episode

Show notes

A long time ago, an amenity in a condo was limited to things like a pool, a gym or maybe a patio. Now, as units grow smaller and developers court buyers, they've become more and more luxurious. You want a rock-climbing wall? Access to communal BMWs? A rooftop running track that lights up at night? A full library and study area? No problem. But what happens when many of the services that used to belong to the neighbourhood become accessible to condo owners only? If nobody uses the neighbourhood pool, or library, or running track—because they already have a private one in their building—how long do cities fund those things? What does a downtown look like where every development is built to be self-contained, and nothing is made for everyone to access? GUEST: Aaron Hutchins, Maclean's We love feedback at The Big Story, as well as suggestions for future episodes. You can find us: Through email at hello@thebigstorypodcast.ca Or @thebigstory.bsky.social on Bluesky Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

More from this show

More
  1. Big Headlines: Prime Minister Carney is in Istanbul exploring a new free-trade partnership

    Canada's chief trade negotiator to the United States says Donald Trump will still be U.S. President after the midterm elections and will still drive trade policy. Canada's deepenin…

    E209006:35
  2. The death of the dinner party

    When was the last time you host a dinner party? Not for special occasion, just for the sake of it. How about the last time you went to one? Odds are, it's been awhile. With generat…

    E207924:04
  3. Big Headlines: Carney says trade talks between Canada and the U.S. are still on pause and Stelco could face legal action

    Plus: Carney is warning Stelco that it could face legal action if it fails to meet its employment commitments, the federal government will add $1-billion to help build a road to th…

    E208806:29
  4. Why is Gen Z protesting around the world?

    Protests have erupted across Europe, as activists seek for radical political and societal change. In France, young people are looking to improve school conditions and access to edu…

    E208618:03
  5. Big Headlines: Alberta's separation vote could have lasting impacts and an update on the injured soldiers from CFB Wainwright

    Plus: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has updated the province on the status of the Canadian Armed Forces soldiers injured during the fire at C-F-B Wainwright, Prime Minister Mark C…

    E208508:13
  6. Danielle Smith's post-referendum problem

    Alberta has decided its fate remains within a united Canada. More than 75% of voters in Monday's historic referendum struck down the idea of separating from the country, a result…

    E207824:07
Now Playing
The Big Story — How the condo amenity wars are changing Canadian cities | Podcast | Josplay Music