A pair of 48-tower skyscrapers proposed for the downtown core is getting a thumbs-down from HRM staff.

A report going to regional council on Tuesday says the “Skye Halifax” project should not be approved because it’s far taller than the maximum height regulations currently allow.

Speaking on News 95.7′s Maritime Morning Saturdy, United Gulf vice-president of operations Patrick Leroy says focusing on the building’s height means overlooking a lot of other positives the development would bring to the downtown core.

“This is about sustainability, affordability and creating walkable, livable neighbourhoods in downtown Halifax,” he said. “So in terms of what the development has to offer in that regard, it hits all the marks.”

United Gulf originally obtained a development permit for two 27-storey towers, known as the “Twisted Sisters,” to be built on the former TexPark site on Granville Street. The height of the buildings generated controversy from heritage advocates, who appealed – unsuccessfully – to the Utility and Review Board to have the permit denied.

However, the permit lapsed in 2010, and United Gulf responded with the proposal for Skye Halifax.

Leroy says the Twisted Sisters development was focused too heavily on retirees and baby boomers, and the new project is designed specifically to appeal to young professionals and first-time homeowners who would be drawn to condo-style living. He says it could play a significant role in revitalizing the downtown core.

“This is a 350 million dollar development,” he said. “It will help restore retail opportunities and reintroduce that residential aspect to the downtown area and reverse the negative trend of people moving to the periphery.”

The staff report points out the 150-metre towers are well above the 66-metre height cap allowed under current regulations, and says making an exception would undermind the city’s commitment to its planning strategy.