Editor's note: At the time this story went to print, the public hearing notification had not been finalized. It now has with the public hearing set for June 28th. The story has been updated below.
The print edition of the Optimist (June 16th edition) has the public notification from the City of Delta stating all of the information required for the public hearing. The notification will also appear in the June 23rd print edition of the Optimist.
An application to build a 150-unit non-market rental apartment building in Ladner will be heading to a public hearing.
Council on Monday approved a staff recommendation to grant preliminary approval for a proposal by Red Door Housing Society to redevelop the 40-unit Ladner Willows townhouse complex, located in the 5600-block of Ladner Trunk Road.
A planning department report notes the rezoning application responds to Delta's Housing Needs Assessment, which identified the need to increase the supply of purpose-built rental housing and to improve housing affordability.
The proposal also aligns with Delta's Housing Action Plan, which prioritizes and supports the addition of more diverse housing options.
“With respect to compliance with Ladner Area Plan policies, the proposal would result in an affordable housing development for families, seniors and individuals with intellectual disabilities. The development would be situated near community, recreational and municipal services, and would upgrade the streetscape and architecture of the neighbourhood,” the report notes.
A larger rear setback and landscaping along the north property line would enhance privacy and reduce shadow impacts on the existing single-detached dwellings, the report notes.
Prior to Monday’s council meeting, an area resident opposed to the application had a letter read into the council record. The letter writer stated the proposal was “oversized and inappropriate” and that nearby residents’ concerns have been largely dismissed by planners.
Council debated a motion put forward by Coun. Lois Jackson to have the public hearing start time pushed later in the evening, but voted against having it after 6 p.m.
Instead, council agreed to have the application as the last agenda item at the upcoming public hearing, which has now been scheduled for June. 28.
Editor's note: See today's (June 16th print edition) for the public hearing notice.
