When is a duplex really a four-plex?
Council considers re-zoning requests on Third Avenue, Carleton Street properties
At a public hearing April 7, Digby town council considered the rezoning of a Third Avenue property that was originally intended to be a duplex. During construction of the building, it was realized that four smaller apartments (two up and two down), could be effectively housed, but the new plan would require zoning be changed from R1 to R2 residential.
The new building at 34 Third Avenue is owned by Robert VanTassell and Tyler Steed, both of Calgary.
Matthew VanTassell, who represented the owners at the public meeting, noted that the original plan would have resulted in family housing. The new plan would see the apartments rented to individuals or couples.
Debbie Thomas, who lives at 32 Third Avenue, said noise during the construction had been excessive and expressed concern about the potential noise that would result from four to six vehicles coming and going next to her house.
At the town council meeting following the public hearing, council decided that a meeting to discuss these issues with the Third Avenue property owners was warranted, prior to granting the rezoning request.
Council also considered the application for rezoning of 19 Carleton Street. The building, currently zoned commercial, formerly housed two apartments and Amero’s Store.
Renovations at 19 Carleton Street will result in it becoming a four-unit apartment building.
Councilors unanimously agreed to rezone this property, noting that the change was consistent with strengthening the residential nature of the area.
