Residents voice concerns over rezoning request in heritage area

Local developer wants to construct three-storey apartment building in behind former SGCI building

Pictured above is an artists rendering of the proposed new apartment development at the former SGCI property.

SACKVILLE, N.B. A new apartment building development being proposed for a heritage property in town has drawn criticism from a number of local residents, who say they are concerned over whether the new multi-unit structure will fit in with the neighbourhood.

Sackville resident Peter Manchester says he is concerned the town is moving too quickly on approving multi-unit developments in the community without enough consideration for the architectural characteristics of the surrounding area.

I think that Sackville has perhaps lost its way when it comes to the heritage landscape it once had, Manchester told members of town council during the public hearing for the proposal last week.

Sackville has, over the past couple of years, experienced significant growth when it comes to high-density housing but Manchester said hes disappointed there doesnt seem to be a comprehensive planning process in place for the approach council and staff want to take when it comes to the look you want.

We want architecture that people can be proud of, said Manchester.

Last weeks public hearing gave residents and members of council an opportunity to hear more about the proposed rezoning for the former SGCI property at 131 Main Street, on which local developer Gordon Beal is asking to build a three-storey, 18-unit building.

This is Beals second attempt at rezoning a parcel of land at the rear of the property from Residential Historic Commercial to Urban Residential 3 (R3). Beals previous rezoning request back in 2010 was denied, with town council citing the design of the proposed building as the main reason behind the rejection.

The initial building, which was said to be targeted toward professionals and seniors, featured two storeys that would have included about a dozen two-bedroom apartment-style units.

See original here:
Residents voice concerns over rezoning request in heritage area