A zoning bylaw amendment and two development permit applications that will result in notable changes in different areas of the community made it through the hearing stage without a peep from the public.
The amendment was in relation to the Mall at Piccadilly, and the changes needed to accommodate Canadian Tire. No one voiced their opposition, which included the addition of an automotive repair component to the existing retail space currently occupied by Zellers.
Council, subsequently, gave their thumbs up to the amendment. The first development permit application was also for the Mall at Piccadilly. The permit allows the temporary reduction of 52 parking stalls, from April 1 to Sept. 30, to allow for a seasonal garden centre. The permit will be issued with final reading of the above zoning amendment.
The second development permit was for improvements and upgrades proposed by developer Bill Laird in relation to his property on the corner of Hudson and Alexander Street NE. Proposed works include upgrades to the northern section’s façade, the upper floor of the corner building, and the renovation of remainder of existing buildings on the property. The intended end result will be a European/tudor-themed structure. While the plan isn’t entirely in synch with the city’s design guidelines for the town centre, council has been supportive and no one from the public voiced their objection at the hearing. Issuance of this permit is hinged on the completion of an encroachment agreement between the city and the developer regarding the building’s canopies along Hudson and Alexander.