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Edmonton city planners came out Thursday in support of a new 80-storey tower on the edge of the river bank, arguing it’s a unique opportunity to create a beautiful public space on a marginal site.

The 280-metre tall tower by Alldritt Group would require Edmonton to sell parkland — a piece of steep almost inaccessible bank — but in return Alldritt would create a series of new public spaces in terraces leading down into the river valley. The base of the tower would be mostly glass, with just a solid core, to let passersby see the valley as much as possible.

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“You’ve got land that’s very steep. It has limited environmental value, limited programming value,” said Peter Ohm, head of city planning. “It truly enhances what’s there now.

“We’re hoping it will have a catalytic effect,” added Ohm, speaking to his decision to back the developer on this one. It goes to council for debate Feb. 6. “It’s going to be iconic … to be a bookend to the Pearl. It’s going to be a landmark.”