‘Exactly the kind of density I’m interested in:’ zoning proceeds for Departure Bay Rd. property

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“We went so far as to have it properly surveyed so we could prove it out. All of the lots do meet the minimum lot area, frontage, and depth requirements; there are no accesses provided on Departure Bay Rd., Strongitharm Ave. It meets the crossing control bylaw, the subdivision bylaw, and the zoning bylaw and, in our opinion, it’s a fully supportable development.”

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'Exactly the kind of density I'm interested in:' zoning proceeds for Departure Bay Rd. property

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Initially pitched to Council in April, the project was sent back in a 7-1 vote due to density concerns.

The new version of the rezoning application includes a site-specific density, limiting the number of units possible on the property.

At a floor area ratio of 0.75, the property will sit at almost the minimum allowable density for R7 zoning, which can range from 0.70 to 1.05.

An updated lot plan sees some buildings at the rear of the property drop to two-storeys, in a bid to reduce view impacts from homes in behind. (Image Credit: Joyce Reid Troost Architecture)

Pady said they’ve done everything they can to speak with neighbours and ensure people are content with the project.

“We did hear a lot of concerns about impacts to views, so we did do a view analysis, and there is potential minor impacts to one building. We did take efforts to respond to that by lowering the buildings at the rear portion of the site to two storeys.”

Coun. Erin Hemmens was the lone supporting vote during April’s discussion, and remained positive in supporting this updated rezoning application on Monday.

She said the project is perfect for the area, and is sorely needed.

“Townhomes are a build form that we know the community wants and needs. Nineteen three-bedroom units in one of our most established neighbourhoods with amenities is all around is exactly the kind of density I’m interested in.”

Councillors passed third reading of the bylaw and directed staff to secure all related conditions related to the rezoning application.

It will return for a vote on final adoption, largely a formality, at a future meeting.

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