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Corfield project okayed by city

Parksville city council issued a development permit for a 16 unit townhouse development at 222 Corfield Street.

Parksville city council issued a development permit for a 16 unit townhouse development at 222 Corfield Street.

Several councillors agreed with the report from staff that said the city would like to see higher density that close to downtown, but the proposed development fits the current zoning and council had limited power since it didn’t require rezoning application or an official community plan amendment.

“The ability to regulate density is beyond the scope and authority of the development permit application,” the report states.

Coun. Sue Powell asked if the parking area could be made of permeable material to absorb the rain.

Coun. Marc Lefebvre asked that the roof be pre-plumbed for solar water panels, pointing out it is much cheaper to do during construction than after the fact. He asked that at least one of the two-story units include a chair lift up the stairs to accommodate people with mobility issues.

“Two-story houses are not very popular with seniors as they get on,” he said.

The proponents who where in the gallery indicated they were open to the suggestions, but the acting director of planning made it clear they are not required to.

The property borders the Jensen green space at the middle of controversy last year over the possible extension of Jensen Avenue to McVickers Street.

In May 2010 council narrowly voted to remove the road extension from their five year capital plan, but have not dedicated it as parkland as some residents pushed for.

The approved townhouses do not encroach on the Jensen right of way green space, which is city property.