Kanata spa development SerenVita called off by Silk Development Group

A major spa development slated for Kanata North is not going ahead. Silk Development Group has withdrawn its plan to build SerenVita, a three-storey "destination wellness spa" at 2505 and 2707 Solandt Road, despite receiving city council approval in April.

In a news release Friday, the Markham-based company said it would not proceed after determining the Kanata North location is not the right foundation for the brand's long-term development.

"A destination project of this scale requires alignment between the capital invested to build and operate the facility and the long-term ownership of the land and operating asset," Silk Development said. "Following extensive discussions, that alignment could not be achieved at this site."

Mike Dunphy, president of construction and business development at Silk Development, said SerenVita was more than a spa project. "The vision is a destination built around restoration, hospitality, community, and long-term guest experience. Delivering that properly requires the right location, the right operating model, and a partnership structure where investment and ownership are aligned for the long term."

Over the past year, the company completed substantial planning and pre-development work, including zoning, design coordination, engineering studies, site planning, and municipal approvals.

The proposed main building at the site would have been 47,275 square feet, with spa functions including saunas, pools, and treatment rooms, as well as offices and a restaurant. A series of accessory personal service buildings and outdoor amenity areas, including pools, relaxation rooms, and footpaths, were planned for west of the main building. The facility would have been connected to the Brookstreet Hotel by a pedestrian walkway and located near the Marshes Golf Club.

The city had considered this a "high economic impact project" that would support Ottawa's economic development strategy and create new jobs in construction and other permanent employment opportunities.

Still, Silk Development said it remains confident in the Ottawa market. "Ottawa continues to be one of the most underserved wellness markets in North America relative to its size, demographics, tourism base, and quality of life," Dunphy added. "We believe strongly in the opportunity here, and we welcome conversations with property owners, investors, and development partners who share that long-term vision."

The company will close out the municipal applications associated with the Kanata North site.