A development in Enderby is not proceeding as originally proposed.
City council directed staff Monday to take another look at the application for an 11-lot subdivision on Johnston Avenue.
“We had some written concerns and people in attendance in council chambers,” said Coun. Brian Schreiner.
“I don’t want to deter development but we want to look after the people in the neighbourhood. We want to find a compromise.”
The concern arose over the applicant seeking to reduce the required right-of-way width of a local road from 18 to 15 metres and reducing the required width of a local road from 9.2 to seven metres.
The applicant also sought a variance so an asphalt pathway could be installed instead of concrete sidewalks.
City staff suggested that some benefits may occur if the roadway width is reduced, including reducing the amount of runoff which would enter the storm water system.
“Alternate development standards which result in narrower roadways with less pavement are consistent with sound asset management principles and are economically sustainable for the city,” said Kurt Inglis, planning assistant, in a report.
“Alternate development standards which reduce costs for developers may result in increased affordability for homeowners. A narrower roadway acts as a traffic calming measure which helps to foster a pedestrian friendly environment.”
Despite staff support for variances, council decided that another review of the proposed development needs to take place.
“There are nice homes there (in the neighbourhood) and we don’t want to just go from concrete sidewalks to asphalt,” said Mayor Greg McCune.
“We’re looking for what’s their now.”
McCune believes the applicant is open to discussion on sidewalks and road widths.
“I think we’re really close,” he said.
