Baby steps

Wellington lands rezoned for multi-unit residential housing

It was a small regulatory step but with a village eager to know how/when/if new homes will be built in its midst, it was a keenly observed proceeding. The developer of the Cork and Vine housing development north of the Millennium Trail in Wellington was before the County’s Planning Committee last week, looking to change the zoning for part of its holdings.

Specifically, Kaitlin is looking to rezone about three acres in the southwest corner of its property along the Millennium Trail— previously identified as stormwater management. It now plans to build a three-storey and four-storey apartment comprising of 104 total units and 131 parking spaces in this location. It will accommodate stormwater management elsewhere on its property. Access to the apartments is proposed via a 6-metre-wide extension of West Street.

Consultant Ryan Guetter advised the planning committee that the proposed rezoning will enable higher-density homes close to the village’s downtown. Speaking on behalf of the developer, Guetter said the application complies with the County’s Official Plan and Wellington’s Secondary Plan.

“We do believe that it has been placed in a compatible matter with sufficient setbacks and onsite amenities,” said Guetter. “We believe the built form is sensitive to the area that exists and is consistent with the lands to the north previously considered through much public consultations and discussion with the community.”

Residents along Consecon Street, north of the trail, currently back onto open fields. The prospect of residential apartments nearby has many worried about what comes next.

Councillor Chris Braney asked what landscaping plans might be available to ensure the neighbours’ privacy.

Guetter noted that the combination of deep backyards of the existing homes along Consecon Street along with 9-metre (30 feet) setbacks from the development would provide a wide buffer.

“There are also mature trees in the rear lots of some of those dwellings,” observed Guetter. “ As part of the site plan process, we would provide a landscape plan that would deal with the treatment of fencing and landscaping. I can say with certainty that in nine metres, you can do quite extensive landscape treatments with mature trees and low shrubs.”

Councillor Janice Maynard asked if the apartments would be rentals or condominiums. Guetter said those determinations have not yet been made.

Wellington councillor Corey Engelsdorfer insisted that the development process be open and transparent.

“It’s important this development fits in this community and that residents feel that they are being heard,” said Engelsdorfer. “We must all be part of building this community.”

Then the Wellington council member turned to the developer.

“Please engage with the community,” implored Engelsdorfer. “Come to the village. Hold open houses. Share your plans so that none of this is a surprise. I think that will go a long way.”

The Planning Committee approved the rezoning.