The proposed redevelopment of a church property near downtown is inconsistent with the neighbourhood’s character and could lead to a variety of issues for existing residents, council heard on Tuesday.
Several residents spoke out against the plan for 8 Mitchell St. during a public meeting, raising concern the planned housing could lead to an increase in traffic, exacerbate issues with on-street parking, increase the risk of flooding and more.
As it stands, the proposal calls for the demolition of the church building and creation of two side-by-side semi-detached homes, with each half of the structure containing two internal accessory units for a combined total of 12, along with a dozen parking spaces (including four garage spots).
“The big concern is the number of residents and the cars they bring,” said Arthur Street resident Marcel Schlaf, whose property is directly across the current church building. “Build something else that has lower density.”
In order for the project to go ahead as proposed, the developer is looking to have the property rezoned from institutional use to low-density residential, along with several zoning amendments (most would be allowed under a comprehensive zoning bylaw currently under appeal).
“That is not low density (given the character of the area),” Schlaf said, noting there are some century homes on the street.
The developer has yet to decide how many bedrooms the various units would contain, though city staff confirmed it could be in the range of 28 to 40 bedrooms.
Delegates worry that means up to 40 more vehicles will be travelling on the narrow road, with some parked there as well.
Even for people with on-street parking permits, finding a spot can be difficult as it is, various people noted.
“This will affect the entire neighbourhood,” said Sarah Wootten.
Speaking on behalf of the developer, planner Chris Corosky said two of the units would be provided for affordable housing.
