GUELPH/ERAMOSA – Council here has approved a site plan application for an eight-unit apartment building in Rockwood.
On April 4, council received a planning the report regarding the application for 150 Alma Street.
The proposed site plan consists of an eight-unit apartment building and would contain a total of 14 parking stalls, which includes two visitor parking stalls and two accessible parking stalls.
County of Wellington planner Meagan Ferris said the proposal complies with the applicable zoning regulations and standards, including lot area, frontage, setbacks, landscape and parking requirements.
“The proposal, in terms of the use itself, is permitted within the county’s official plan and an apartment dwelling is a permitted use on this property,” Ferris explained.
“At this time all of the commenting agencies are generally in support of this application and the overall site plan itself, there’s just some minor adjustments that are needed before final approval is achieved.”
She noted no objections have been received and permits from the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) have been issued.
“It checks all the boxes,” said councillor Mark Bouwmeester. There’s not much there and the fact they have MTO approval already, that’s no small thing.
“It’s adding eight more units to Rockwood and I think that’s a good thing.”
He added, “Housing is a serious issue everywhere, or the lack of housing, so this in a small way this helps adding more houses.
“This will be a nice addition to main street Rockwood.”
Recognizing the housing crisis, Mayor Chris White echoed Bouwmeester’s comments.
“I think you’re absolutely right in terms of housing, and rental houses are even as dire as housing is, so getting smaller rental on the market is absolutely a positive thing for those who are downsizing or just entering the market,” White said.
New councillor Steven Liebig said, “Even with the province looking for ways to increase residential development, housing, etc. and the need for it, it’s a great idea.
“It looks like it’s well-built and well designed … it will be a great addition to Rockwood.”
Ferris said the site plan agreement is being drafted and, once finalized, it will be forwarded to the township’s solicitor for review and then the developer for signing.
She recommended council approve the site plan.
Council approved the proposed site plan and will delegate final approval of the plans, drawings and site plan agreement, when finalized, to the township CAO, the report noted.
