Wellington North council has approved a zoning bylaw amendment sought by Avila Investments for the residential portion of a new Mount Forest subdivision
The amendment approves the development of 231 single detached lots, 30 semi-detached lots (60 units), and 120 street townhouses on 32 acres along Highway 6 and bordered by Bentley and South Water Streets. However two commercial blocks are still being discussed, including a controversial mixed use 5 story building
Wellington North Mayor Andy Lennox said the new housing is desperately needed.
"Wellington County, outside of the core of the GTA, is scheduled to have the highest rate of growth of any of the municipalities in the outer ring, and part of that is coming to Wellington North We're seeing the evidence of it. We're seeing the number of applications," he explained.
Residents expressed concerns about density, congestion, park land and traffic, among other issues. Planners said there will be dedicated parkland in the the new community and a link to trails. Municipal planners reported the applicant has indicated that the proposed 4.5m exterior side yard setback are consistent with current standards in other municipalities. They said a more urban standard has been proposed for the exterior side yard setbacks. Planners said the applicant has indicated that the market for commercial space has drastically changed in recent years and mixed use development is supported by Provincial and County planning policy. The applicant has also indicated that the mixed use blocks are well separated from existing development in the area. Planning staff have asked for more detail on the proposed residential component of the buildings
"Whether it's density, whether it's the changing nature of our community, whether it be our employers struggling to find workforce, whether it be people who can't afford to buy the homes that we have and need other housing options," Lennox added.
"This to me is the issue that is going to be the toughest one to deal with and that we're going to be dealing with for the foreseeable future. And this is just sort of the beginning of the beginning, I think. I think this is something we're going to be talking about a lot," he said.