A special Council meeting was held at noon on Friday to discuss the first reading of Bylaw 2025-20999, which proposes a zoning amendment. This bylaw amendment would allow for a new apartment development along North Wellock Road, from Sister Roddy Road to Devine Avenue and Irving Crescent.
The affected plots of land are currently zoned for single-detached dwellings, but the application requests permission to develop multi-unit apartment-style buildings, with construction targeted to begin this fall.
Zoning is the main barrier to the proposal. However, the agenda notes existing conflicts “can be resolved through design elements.” Land Development Services will work with the applicant to ensure the development aligns with surrounding neighbourhoods through architectural controls and design standards, either during the public hearing process or under a new bylaw, depending on timing.
The applicant also indicated plans to consolidate 25 lots into larger parcels, with a formal subdivision application expected in the near future.
While the site is already fully serviced, the project’s feasibility depends on the expansion of sanitary services. The need for additional capacity has been identified by city engineering and water and wastewater services, and a proposal to expand servicing in the neighbourhood has been approved in principle to support long-term growth.
Wellock Road is classified as a collector road, which supports apartment development. However, lanes will be required to address traffic concerns, and neighbourhood aesthetics will be a major factor in the development review process.
The council voted to give the proposal a first reading.
The vote passed with a majority, with Councillor Shelly Veroba casting the sole vote against. Councillors Tom Mauss and Brian Johnson attended by phone and both voted in favour.
The next reading of the bylaw will be at the next regular Council meeting on August 11.