A developer is looking to add over a dozen apartment units onto an existing building at the south end of Port Elgin.
The building currently consists of four second-storey apartments and commercial space below including Huron-Bruce MP Ben Lobb’s office at 5101 Highway 21. They would be a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments.
The developer is proposing to build an addition which would house 13 new residential units and one additional business. They would be on two floors, above and behind the existing building.
A Town staff report says the developer has committed to designing 20 per cent of the units to meet or exceed provincial requirements for accessibility.
The project would be exempt from development charges.
Staff say in their report, “The proposed development represents an efficient use of land, infrastructure and services.” Staff are recommending a development agreement. They also want an environmental assessment done to ensure any contaminants on the land from previous uses won’t affect tenants.
Before council discussion, Mayor Luke Charbonneau noted council cannot direct staff with regard to the application, but that they could provide input, adding, “Council does not have the authority to direct staff in the negotiation of a site plan control agreement.”
Vice Deputy Mayor Mike Myatt called the proposed development, “Fabulous news.” Councillor Cheryl Grace called it “A great project,” adding she feels it’s a good location in terms of proximity to amenities.
