Mixed-use development won't block Horseshoe Bay's waterfront: proponent
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Updated: October 02, 2009 3:52 PM
Sewell's Marina's commercial and residential development won't obstruct Horseshoe Bay's foreshore views, the project's proponent Dan Sewell says.
The slope of the 2.57 acre property, in the west corner of the bay, allows for taller buildings to be place adjacent to the hillside, with one and one and a half storey buildings along Nelson Avenue, he told approximately 120 people at a community consultation meeting at Gleneagles Community Centre on Thursday night.
Although the idea for a mixed-used development began eight years ago, the approximately 150-unit project is still conceptual, Sewell said. In order to move forward, the property requires a official community plan amendment to allow the commercial and residential component over top of its marina status, as well as rezoning and a development permit — all of which demand public hearings.
Initial drafts include expanding access to the waterfront, past the BoatHouse Restaurant, with a possible bridge and walkway around the small island in front of the property.
The marina would stay intact and the development would not encourage businesses that already exist in Horseshoe Bay, Sewell said.
"We do not need more commercial (stores) in Horseshoe Bay that rely on ambient traffic," he told the crowd.
The majority of parking would be underground, he added. Initial examinations of the property suggest three levels of parking could be provided.
Some residents questioned how much additional traffic the new units and stores would add to the community.
"If there is a next step, then we would come up with a traffic study," he said, adding it could be completed within five months.
West Vancouver district staff will compile people's responses to the presentation. A report for council should be ready by November, the district's director of planning, lands and permits Bob Sokol said.
"Largely it seemed to me people are in favour of the project," he said.
If so staff will recommend the project move ahead.
raldous@northshoreoutlook.com
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