Editor:
Re: Changes are proposed for final phases of
'Gardens, May 18
I think it is fair to say the majority of residents in Marina Garden Estates enjoy living in the area.
We moved here because the types of accommodation and amenities available were attractive and, in today's world, quite unique.
We were all aware the remaining three neighbourhoods, when developed, would involve increased density. The latest Marina Garden Estates Limited workshop with Delta council (this is the third on this subject) shows us that density is set to be increased well beyond what has been approved in two of the neighbourhoods.
If council ever passed the current proposals, the following would happen:
1. Neighbourhood 9 would have 76 single homes, a proposal that I am sure would be very acceptable to the neighbourhood and in keeping with the general tenor of the area.
Way to go, Mr.Chan!
2. Neighbourhood 10 would have 305 townhomes, the majority being 16 feet wide and three storeys high. I am sure the relocating empty nesters will enjoy climbing those three sets of stairs to their bedrooms.
3. Neighbourhood 11 would have three four-storey apartment buildings (a total of 265 units) resting on ground level parking. All the units built in Neighbourhoods 10 and 11 would rest on ground level parking.
4. Neighbourhood 12 is now moved out of Deas Slough (a feat of engineering magic) and replaces the north half of Neighbourhood 11.
Neighbourhood 12 would have an 88-unit rental complex situated in a four-storey building with commercial amenities and parking below the rental units. This horseshoe shaped building would encircle the relocated boatyard.
5. The potential "active" park is gone to be replaced by a boardwalk. Do we not already have the dike trail?
An "active" park could include a tiny tots play area and tennis/pickleball courts. These are amenities we need in our neighbourhood.
6. The outdoor parking area for the boaters is gone, to be replaced with a grassed area with trees and shrubs.
It's obvious that changes to the original plan may occur but are they in the best interests of not only the residents of Marina Gardens but also the entire Ladner community?
The latest proposal raises concerns on building height, density, parking availability and traffic congestion that will have an impact on the Marina Gardens neighbourhood as well as Ladner in general.
I know the residents living on Admiral Boulevard are looking forward to the traffic flowing from the 730 new residences, and to the parents and children at Neilson Grove Elementary, welcome to Admiral Boulevard, soon to be Ladner Trunk Road North.
Stan Lawson
