Chatham-Kent council will consider rezoning a section of land in Chatham's east end to allow for the construction of an apartment complex with 182 units.
In a report to be presented to council on Monday, municipal planning officials are recommending council approve the rezoning of 2.42 acres of land at 320 Grand Avenue East, which is currently vacant.
The rezoning would permit the development of a 13-storey apartment building, along with additional off-street parking at 277 Grand Avenue East.
The land is currently zoned for residential use, but the current regulations allow for a 10-story residential apartment building with up to 138 units.
According to the report, the new proposal seeks to amend the zoning regulations to the apartment building’s height, density, and parking ratio.
Director of Planning Services Ryan Jacques said the demand for apartment-type housing has increased steadily over the past five years.
"The proposed apartment building is within the Chatham urban boundary and is also within proximity to existing built-up residential, commercial, and open space areas," said Jacques. "The development is an efficient use of vacant lands that have access to full municipal services, and access to nearby transit facilities, and other public services."
The land is within walking distance from downtown Chatham and local high schools.
"These are sites offering public services to support a growing population, all within walking distance," the report read.
David French, a planning consultant for Storey Samways Planning Ltd in Chatham-Kent, said the units will feature a mix of one, two, three, and four bedrooms. Rental rates were not available.
"There is going to be some amenities in the building, such as a gym," said French. "One of the biggest is that it's located along the river."
He said the building will also feature covered parking for tenants.
"The first floor of the building will be parking," said French.
