A scaled-down housing project not far north of Walmart is on its way to Belleville city council for approval, but not without some concerns.
Tuesday night, the Planning Advisory Committee decided to recommend rezoning and a draft plan of subdivision for five semi-detached houses, totalling 10 residences, at 427 Farnham Road near Moira Lea Court.
Residents of Moira Lea Court have strongly opposed the development, which was originally proposed to hold 13 townhouses.
Councillor Bill Sandison tells Quinte News he has concerns about such a development so close to Belleville’s first traffic roundabout.
He told the committee it is a unique situation, a “one of a kind” roundabout in Ontario.
Councillor Pat Culhane told the committee she has concerns about “the health, safety and welfare” of the area and could not support the plan.
Chair of Planning Councillor Paul Carr indicated the city has to look at 20 years in the future regarding traffic on Farnham Road and the possibility of it becoming a four-lane roadway.
Acting CAO Rod Bovay, who is Director of Devlopment and Engineering, said in the case of a move to a four-lane roadway the driveway at the project would have to be modified.
The committee decided to recommend approval of the project to city council, on a recorded vote of five to three, with Councillors Sandison, Pat Culane and Paul Carr voting against.
The issue will come before city council at its meeting next week.
Councillor Sandison says he intends to continue to fight the project.
