By Wendy Elliott
Wolfville community development committee (CDC) took another look at a potential development for 146 Gaspereau Ave.
Coun. Mercedes Brian, who chairs the CDC, reported that the public information session examined plans for a new 23-unit, three-storey building.
Halifax developer Noel Taiani has decided to divide his property in half and would like to build four duplexes on the second portion.
In 2011, town council rejected Taiani’s proposal for a four-storey, 38-unit apartment structure as too large in mass. Property owners of adjacent Fowler Street were upset at the size and loss of view planes.
“We liked it a lot better than before,” said Brian of the new plan.
With the property divided, she said, Taiani could build four duplexes as of right or come back with a request for another multi-unit building, which would require a special development process.
Council’s decision in 2011 was appealed by the developer to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board. The developer was granted a deferral of the appeal last January to allow time for consideration of an alternate proposal.
Taiani’s initial design was the first significant test of Wolfville current municipal planning strategy, which was approved four years ago.
The land is zoned high density residential. Only two dwelling units per lot are permitted as-of-right in this zone.
Taiani, who heads a numbered company, disagreed with council's assessment his 38-unit project was not consistent with the municipal planning strategy.
Brian also reported to council that Wolfville residents Dale Gruchy and Stephen Mattson have been appointed to the CDC committee with terms to expire in 2015.
