Town council has turned down an application to develop automobile-focused businesses, including a lube express and car wash, on three commercial lots adjacent to Highway 1A in the recently established Historic Downtown direct control district.
Councillors cited concerns about impacts on adjacent residents in the Homestead building operated by the Cochrane Society for Housing Options (CSHO), including noise, pollution, and traffic. Some also expressed that this type of development isn’t desirable at a major entrance point to the community.
The proposal included an automotive services and car wash business—uses that don’t align with the recently established Historic Downtown direct control zoning. The applicant sought to create a new direct control district on the lots that would allow the development to proceed.
Councillor Alex Reed said it would not only undermine years of careful planning and community effort to preserve the unique character of downtown, but also set a dangerous precedent.
"It sends a message that bylaws can be bent or ignored at the whim of council, and that would erode public trust, which I think has been a challenge," said Reed.
"This development threatens the disturb a peaceful neighborhood, create congestion, increased pollution and significantly impact quality of life of the 26 residents of that community who live in that building beside it," said Reed.
"And it raises serious concerns, I think, for any residents in that community and that we are trying to create a pedestrian-friendly environment in our downtown, and what is a really desirable area in some ways, and I think their needs are as important in terms of their well-being as economic growth."
At a June 23 public hearing, similar concerns were raised by opponents of the project.
CSHO chair Lyle Balmer said they are not opposed to the design but believe it is not a suitable location and should be developed elsewhere. That same sentiment was echoed by two residents of The Homestead.
Other expressed concerns. Cochrane Fire Services did not support locating a repair shop next to a multi-storey residential structure. The town's roads department flagged concerns about street parking, and an adjacent landowner voiced opposition.
The applicant argued the project would fill a desperately needed gap in the community, and said the design features a Western-inspired, modern aesthetic that complements the look of the Historic Downtown.
