Parksville residents can have their say on the future of a 140 acre parcel of land next to the Englishman River.
District Developments published a survey on a website dedicated to the future Riverside development, following a recommendation from City of Parksville staff that it begin public consultation regarding a proposed 800 unit community in the area of 1465 Greig Road.
The developer has submitted an application to change the land’s official community plan (OCP) designation and zoning to facilitate a mix of low-rise multi-family and single-family residential units within the planned neighbourhood.
District Developments is seeking public feedback on the future neighbourhood, which is at the very early planning stage, it says. The website addresses possible concerns, including environmental sensitivity, flood management, wetland conservation and housing variety. The survey is available until Sept. 30.
Brandon Crema, executive vice-president of District Developments and development manager Briana Mussatto presented to council on July 19.
The planned community would involve developing 80 acres of the 140 acre parcel of land, while leaving the remaining 60 acres as park and wetland, which may include community features such as trails, according to Mussatto.
The city’s engineering department, operations department and Parksville Volunteer Fire Department are conducting a technical review of the application.
A report by Blaine Russell, the city’s director of community planning and building, said the proposal does not have enough detail for staff to complete the review, but recommended the developer provide public engagement opportunities.
An environmental overview assessment, geotechnical assessment and servicing report have been prepared, according to Russell’s report. The applicant also plans to have a transportation impact assessment done. The reports will be made available when a follow up staff report is completed, should the application advance, the city said.
Mussatto said the project will be completed in phases, but said they can not provide a timeline because it will depend on a number of factors, including the market, processing time for applications and permits and construction time.
