By Pam Wright
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Chatham-Kent council’s decision to prohibit a second route into a new housing development in Chatham’s Birdland was met with applause in the council gallery.
After much discussion and several deputations at a recent meeting, council opted to quash a request from the developer of 255 Lark St. to open up access to the property from Partridge Crescent, in addition to the existing Lark Street access.
Council voted on the Partridge Crescent piece separately from the official plan amendment and zoning bylaw request.
The developer, comprised of four Ontario numbered companies, has purchased the former Monsignor Uyen Catholic School and plans to construct a 160 multi-unit stacked row house complex made up of eight buildings no more than four storeys high.
Various concerns were raised by residents of both Lark Street and Partridge Crescent through the deputations, including the diminishment of the neighbourhood that increased traffic will bring.
Representing the developer, planner David French argued that a secondary access was the better option. He told council that a redesign may be in the works because secondary access was denied and that the developer may appeal the decision to the Ontario Land Tribunal.
Municipal administration had also recommended the second access, primarily for emergency access reasons, but the idea faced opposition from several members of council.
“I don’t agree with and I never vote in favour of shoeing in developments that alter neighbourhoods dramatically,” Chatham Coun. Michael Bondy said in his comments, adding the secondary access was not necessary.
According to C-K planning director Ryan Jacques, the owner of the property can now proceed with a site plan application, including detailed design of above-ground and below-ground works. This is required before a building permit can proceed.
