Parksville council heard concerns about a proposed resort development during a public hearing on Sept. 6.
Council is considering a zoning amendment bylaw that would change the status of the main portion of the property at 1170 Resort Dr. from agricultural land to tourist commercial, to facilitate a resort complete with a hotel, restaurant and spa. Currently the property is split-zoned.
If the bylaw amendment is approved it will also allow a site-specific height variance of 14 metres.
Preliminary concept plans show the 38-unit three-storey development also includes a convenience retail store and outdoor pool located on the main 1.03 hectares section of the property that is subject to the proposed zoning amendment.
Two residents appeared at the public hearing and said they opposed the development because of issues such as traffic and parking concerns, as well as water shortages.
READ MORE: Parksville council hears proposal for new resort development
“Approval of such a high water demand development in the absence of an additional water supply would in my opinion be irresponsible,” said Carmel Lowe.
The development is in its early stages and still requires council give a third reading and final adoption to the zoning amendment bylaw before the proponent can apply for a development permit.
Council gave the zoning amendment bylaw second reading back in July and advanced it to the public hearing. Eight members of the public attended a public open house earlier this year.
The property is designated as Resort Lands in Parksville’s official community plan (OCP).
The application was made by MacDonald Gray Consultants Inc on behalf of owner Boting Living Resort Canada Inc.