Numerous people came out in opposition to a development proposal for a four storey, eight-unit development at 602 Lakeshore Drive in Penticton.
At least 25 people spoke during the public hearing that lasted nearly two hours on Tuesday night.
The developer Meiklejohn Architectural Design Studio is looking to get both a zoning change from small-lot residential to medium-density multiple housing, as well as variances for the minimum yard size between buildings and the maximum lot coverage for the building.
A spokesperson for the developer said the owner will be moving to Penticton from West Kelowna and living on the top floor of the multi-plex.
He told council that the developer has listened to the public’s concerns and made many accommodations including changing from five storeys to four and increasing the setback from the sidewalk.
“We think we give you a building that Penticton can be proud of,” said the spokesperson.
But many residents at the hearing didn’t agree.
“Lakeshore Drive is the centre piece for Penticton and a place where tourists and residents come to,” said Ken, a resident of Lakeshore.
Jim Huet of 496 Lakeshore Drive said he warned council that if they approved the Walker house fourplex they’d have to approve them all. Now here we are, he said.
READ MORE: Historic Walker House demolished for fourplex
Heritage deserves to be preserved, said another.
“Heritage has value and adds character. It tells a story of our past,” said one resident.
READ MORE: Another Lakeshore Drive development proposal
Another resident from Bassett Street commented also about the Walker home development that now “bullies its neighbours” in size.
“Many of us believe the Lakeshore is the most significant street, the most photographed with big open spaces for people to enjoy.”
There were questions as to why there is no design requirements by the city for Lakeshore aside from buildings not exceed four storeys.
There were also concerns about flooding as several buildings on Lakeshore have experienced flooding over the years. Others were against adding more hard surfaces to the area and taking away green space.
“I have no vested interest in the street but I do have a vested interest in Penticton. Let the developer build something that is reasonable to the size. This is too big,” said one resident.
One resident submitted two petitions opposing the development, one carrying over 215 signatures.
The city had already received 75 pages of correspondence on the proposed eight-unit four-storey building at 602 Lakeshore Drive.
Many residents expressed their concerns about the look of the development as yet another ‘little box’.