PUSLINCH – A proposed expansion at Sunrise Therapeutic Riding and Learning Centre would allow those with special needs to remain closer to the horses they love.
GSP Group Inc. senior planner Megan Gereghty made the pitch to council on Aug. 14 during a public meeting on Sunrise’s zoning amendment.
Proponents define the expansion as an on-farm diversified use.
As background, Gereghty explained the facility moved to this location in 1996 and now has over 260 volunteers assisting up to 120 riders per week in the peak season.
She noted Sunrise Equestrian offers summer camps, life skills and a Little Breeches Club.
Gereghty added that students from all over the world and across Canada get training and certification at this facility.
She explained the 102 acre-site at 6920 Concession 1 in Puslinch is served by well and septic system. Crops are farmed by a neighbouring farmer (typically hay or beans). The site has an existing farmhouse, office, swimming pool, riding area and barn.
Gereghty said the plan is to build 16 studio apartments for adults with special needs.
The building would include six rooms for respite stay services for adults with special needs, accessible administrative offices, and a common area with dining and social gathering areas and a multi-purpose hall.
Gereghty noted the project would include a new septic bed and well near the proposed building.
In addition, 14 new parking spots would be constructed, bringing the total to 44.
Gereghty noted the proposed additional uses would allow for supportive affordable housing for persons with special needs.
The use would be accessory to the Therapeutic Riding and Learning Centre.
The new residence would remain within the farm building cluster of existing structures, share a common driveway, provide potable water and septics, have a maximum floor area of 2,400 square metres (25,800 square feet).
Gereghty wanted to ensure the new building would fit in with the existing buildings on site, rather than on a different part of the property.
Because there are crops being grown on the property, “we don’t want to interfere with the regular farm practices.”
“In conclusion, the connection to the farm, including the animals on the farm, is integral to Sunrise programming and for that reason the proposed housing needs to be close to the farm as opposed to being located within an urban settlement area.”
Council response
Mayor James Seeley was impressed with the presentation for the project.
Councillor Matthew Bulmer stated “I think this is a natural progression for Sunrise, and it is a good thing.”
Bulmer asked about how this would affect the Minimum Distance Separation arcs and whether it would affect adjacent owners should they wish to make changes to their properties.
He asked how flexible the location of the proposal is.
Gereghty said there might be some flexibility, but the current proposal is strategically located near the farm building cluster.
Bulmer said it appeared the proponents had chosen the optimum location for the project.
Councillor John Sepulis saw this as a solid presentation.
Seeley again added “I think you are doing wonderful work and I look forward to seeing this move forward.”
Council took no action at the meeting.
A report and recommendation will be received by council at a later date.
