A proposal to build four duplexes in a Hart-area neighbourhood overcame opposition from nearby residents to win city council's approval on Monday night.
Armed with a 45-name petition, three people spoke against the plan to build the homes at 3865 Glendale Dr. and 3940, 3943 and 4016 Knight Cres., on the east side of Highway 97.
Concerns raised centred on how the homes could affect the character of the neighbourhood.
"Our family has been a one-family neighbourhood and it's been that for over 50 years and I really think it should stay that way because we are a good neighbourhood," said Glendale Drive resident Margaret Storey.
In letters in support of the projects, proponent Bruce Kidd of Kidd Real Estate Holdings Ltd. says the homes would be built once the mobile homes currently occupying the lots are vacated over the next three to five years.
He said the projects will provide new, yet affordable homes that are close to schools, shopping and lakes. Similar duplexes have been built on Peter Road on the opposite side of Highway 97 North, he noted.
Wildwood Elementary School at the corner of Estavilla Drive and Highway 97 Frontage Road has been closed since 2002-03. The next closest is Springwood Elementary School on the west side of the highway.
Council members voted unanimously in favour of passing the relevant bylaws through third reading.
Contrary to the concerns raised, Coun. Brian Skakun said the projects will "absolutely enhance the neighbourhood."
"I appreciate the residents coming and speaking," he said. "It doesn't mean they haven't been heard, it's just I don't agree with most of their points at this time."
Noting the large size of the lots, Coun. Jillian Merrick said the projects will "maintain a housing market of affordability" in the neighbourhood.
"These are not people building large mansions on properties, these are people building duplexes and that maintains the lifestyle I think they're looking for, which is affordable family homes," she said.
Coun. Terry McConnachie said the homes will give other families the opportunity to enjoy the neighbourhood's lifestyle "and to get to know the fine folks that live there."
Whether many more duplexes can be built in the area appears doubtful. Planning and development manager Ian Wells indicated the official community plan prevents a proliferation of that type home in the neighbourhood.
