New houses can overlook water

New houses in a subdivision located on the old convent property on Marine Avenue will be allowed to face the water.

City of Powell River Council was asked to approve a variance permit that would allow the houses to be closest to the water and any accessory buildings to be closest to the road. Under the existing zoning bylaw the houses should be facing the road with ancillary structures behind, closer to the ocean.

At the Thursday, August 20, council meeting, Councillor Rob Southcott, in introducing the recommendation, said it was essentially a backyard-front-yard issue.

Thomas Knight, director of planning services, said in announcing the proposed variance permit to the neighbourhood, a couple of residents came forward, wanting to know the nature of what was being proposed by the city. He said the neighbours were thinking the letters the city was sending them regarding the variance was in some way affecting their own property or was something to do with their property.

“We looked at the letter to see if it had too much legalese in it but it’s pretty straightforward,” said Knight. “It’s basically a three-liner.

“The only response that we got was from neighbours coming in who were unsure. We took the opportunity to explain it.”

Knight said the neighbours were fine with the proposed variance itself.

Councillors unanimously carried a motion to permit the zoning bylaw variance. Prior to discussing the recommendation, Councillor CaroleAnn Leishman declared a conflict and left council chambers for the discussion and vote because her employer is involved with the property development.