29-unit co-housing complex planned for Nanaimo’s north end

Of the 29 units, eight will be one-bedroom apartments between 538 and 635 square feet in size, while 16 two-bedroom apartments or townhouses are also envisioned.

Five three bedroom townhouses will be between 1,345 and 1,377 square feet.

Despite the unanimous vote, two councillors expressed concerns about parking and spillover impacts for residents on Universal Pl., Laguna Way and Lost Lake Rd.

“I just have some concerns about this, for the simple fact we already have so many issues on Lost Lake. Is that road going to be able to take the added traffic? Was that looked at? I know it probably doesn’t require a traffic study, but we’re getting constant complaints about how narrow it is. There’s no sidewalks, there’s so many issues.”

A rendering of the proposed co-housing complex on Universal Pl. (Image Credit: Lost Lake Cohousing)

Staff told Armstrong a traffic impact assessment was not required, and they do anticipate more on-street parking demand as a result of the development.

However director of development approvals Jeremy Holm said the co-housing model typically yields different results for car usage than comparable market complexes.

“[Owners] anticipate the vehicle usage and behaviours will be different than a typical market development, and they anticipate that they’re providing sufficient parking to meet the needs.”

The issue of parking spaces being provided on site was also a bone of contention for at least one councillor.

Two variances were approved by Council, including a reduction of the required number of parking spaces, from 50 to 39.

Coun. Ian Thorpe, supportive of the project, expressed concern on a continuing trend.

“We’re doing this more and more, and we’re just putting more cars parked on neighbourhood roads, which causes other problems. In this case, it’s 29 units, and there’s only allowance for three visitor parking spaces. On the other hand, we have 29 spaces for secure bike parking. This is great in theory, but I don’t think it reflects the reality of transportation patterns or parking problems in the city.”

Coun. Paul Manly cited a similar co-housing project on Seventh St. in Harewood, which he said has been “very successful”.

“I know they have less parking spaces there as well, but also a co-op car handy which is well used, and it’s a real community building project.”

A building permit is still required before the development can begin construction.

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by Alex Rawnsley

29-unit co-housing complex planned for Nanaimo’s north end

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