Concerns regarding long-term sewage capacity may prevent further development on Drayton Ridge, halting progress on a large condo block and golf course.
Glenaviland Development president Fred Prior says he remains optimistic about the project, informing council on Nov. 26 that gas and hydro would be installed at the site by the first week of December.
However, construction of the large condo block over-looking the river and an 89-acre golf course will have to be put on hold until measures are taken to enhance sewage capacity in the village, he said.
“The golf course and condos depend on improved sewage capacity and we were under the impression more was coming … We made a commitment and are anxious to keep going, but can’t do that without [it],” Prior told council.
Glenaviland Development has fronted the cost of hydro to the site, but will not receive a rebate if the lots are not all sold within five years. This is a major concern if the project comes to a standstill, said Prior, who explained $4.5 million has been invested in the Glenaviland site.
Talks have been underway to expand the Mapleton sewage system, which serves Drayton and Moorefield.
Township officials say proposals would allocate an additional 200 cubic metres to the current capacity of 750m³ but given the demand, the system would be maxed out again within a few months.
Drayton may need a partial or full treatment plan to accommodate the new growth, possibly through a combined mechanical/lagoon system.
Mayor Bruce Whale acknowledged Prior’s report and said he hopes to arrange a delegation with the Ministry of Environment in February once further data is gathered from staff, conservation authorities, and consulting parties.
While a new treatment system would be considered a capital investment spread over a number of years, its implementation would allow for further development on the site and economical growth in the region, Whale said.
On Nov. 1, council granted preliminary acceptance to phase two, stage one of the Glenaviland subdivision in Drayton’s north end.
The acceptance, granted at a special council meeting, recognizes the developer has dealt with a list of conditions set out in a subdivision agreement with the municipality.
