With another new waterfront development on the horizon, residential construction isn’t slowing down in Campbell River.
At Monday’s (Oct. 18) city council meeting, council approved West Urban Developments’ application for a 70-unit apartment building at 854 Island Highway South, near Rotary Beach Park. Currently, Little Rock RV Park sits on the plot of land.
While there’s no word on when construction will start, the new building will sit 5-storeys high offering what developers call “market rates.”
However, West Urban’s proposal included a variance that’s sparking concern from locals. Developers want the building’s front yard setback to sit at 4.41 metres instead of the planned 7.5 metres.
In a letter to council, Stefano, who lives in the building next door, said the more distance from the highway the better, not only for noise but air quality. “This will also allow the residents of the north face of 872 [Island Hwy. S.] apartments a better view of the majestic mountains,” Stefano wrote.
And local Lynn is on the same page, writing to council: “The yard setback is necessary to allow adequate space between the road line and the apartment building to eventually allow for a left turn lane and hopefully sometime in the future a sidewalk. This will also obstruct views of the surrounding buildings and the houses on the ridge.”
However, Mayor Andy Adams says the new development follows the area’s OCP, or Official Community Plan. He says the height won’t impact current views of the residential area above.
“So that does make some sense to get some density in that area, whether it’s the condominium applications or the apartment applications, that’s what we’re seeing,” Adams tells My Campbell River Now.
He continued, “It’s another one of many that are happening in this area. There are a number previously approved in the last month or so. It’s another opportunity to get some infill and density for much-needed housing options.”
Back in August, city council approved another 5-storey building farther north at 536 Island Highway South. At the time, developer Crowne Pacific Development Corp. said the condominium building would feature 24 multi-family units. More details here.
