Cambridge eyes hotel-condo development in Galt

Downtown Galt is known for its historic buildings but now it could become home to a glitzy new 12-storey hotel-condo building.

If the project is approved by Cambridge city council, the proposed building would be built on the banks of the Grand River near the Cambridge Mill restaurant.

Councillors on the city's planning and development committee argued over the height of the proposed building.

The developer asked for an allowance of 54 metres,more than twice the height allowed by local bylaws.

Mayor Doug Craig says rules are made to be broken andthat the city canchange the bylaws when it benefits the community.

"What we've done is solidify public confidence by moving ahead and bringing something into the community that's going to create jobs, going to create business for our downtown restaurants and is going to in fact be a beautiful example on the river," said Craig.

The hotel is still only a proposal and needs approval of the city's full council.The development wouldhouse 114 condos and 90 hotel suites.

The developer Pearle Hospitality says it could open as early as late 2017.