A proposed new housing development close to downtown has taken another step forward in Oliver.
The zoning amendment of 201 Co-op Avenue (Forbes property) received first and second reading and now heads to public hearing next month.
Canadian Wetlands is applying to have the zoning changed from Agriculture Transition to Residential High Density Two to accommodate a mix of 117 townhouses, fourplexes and condominiums.
The applicant says the project will provide a high standard of architectural building design and landscaping that will encourage a more vibrant atmosphere close to the town centre.
The property, situated northwest of the intersection of Co-op Avenue and Sawmill Road, has been used as a horse pasture.
The property is within the floodplain, so the applicant will be required to ensure the dwelling units are constructed in accordance to floodplain regulations.
Planner Christopher Garrish said the concern is that a number of units will be developed adjacent to and fronting the Town’s Public Works yard on Sawmill Road. And there doesn’t appear to be any sort of buffering measures, he noted.
Garrish said a number of walkways/green spaces connecting to the river channel are being proposed, but it’s not clear whether these will be open to the public.
Garrish is recommending that Town council require the applicant to provide a pedestrian link between Co-op Avenue and the river channel.
Councillor Petra Veintimilla expressed concern about the lack of a buffer between the development and the works yard, saying she’s afraid nobody will want to buy those units.
Councillor Larry Schwartzenberger agreed there should be a buffer there.
