A proposal for a new liquor store in West Sidney is almost a classic example of the good coming with the bad.
Or, at least, it’s an example of a development — seen as disagreeable in some eyes — having the potential to solve other problems.
Steve Weller’s idea of a small liquor store along Canora Avenue will be getting attention from neighbours and both the Town of Sidney and District of North Saanich. Not only will they be looking at issues such as the proliferation of alcohol sales, but the concerns of nearby residents are sure to come up.
Those are just some of the issues facing the owner of the property in his quest to improve the building and the land.
At the same time, if Weller follows through with those plans if and when he gets the green light, the redesign of the property and building renovation could very well make what is a dated facade today, look great tomorrow.
Plus, it has the added side benefit of possibly resolving an irritant for neighbours.
One of the property tenants, Enterprise Car Rental, has limited space to park its vehicles. When they get busy, some are parked on Canora Avenue and Frost Avenue in a residential area.
This issue has led to numerous complaints to both Sidney and North Saanich — as both municipalities have jurisdiction over half of Canora Avenue, the area’s border line. Yet to date, little has been done to ensure the parking issue does not happen again.
Redevelopment of the property could solve the problem.
For some, liquor stores are not the most desirable of uses for land, especially when it’s right in your backyard. On the flip side, if the property is left as-is, the other problems remain.
There is going to have to be some form of compromise in the end, and it hinges on whether the liquor store idea gets the go-ahead.
If it’s an allowable use under current municipal zoning bylaws, the new store should be given every chance to proceed.
That said, the owner should also be held to account for his promise to clean up the corner.
It’s the only way people will accept it.
