Elie partners have big development plans

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This article was published 16/11/2012 (4956 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Two Elie area residents are hoping plans for an adult living complex currently on the drawing board soon become a reality.

Jean Aquin, who owns L’ Auberge Clemence Bed and Breakfast with wife Linda, and contractor Bruno Bernardin are taking the first steps in their multi-year plans to enhance the community’s appeal to older people by building the 50-plus facility.

They are partnering with Bridge Road Developments Ltd. to build Country Grove Estates, a three-story, 30-unit complex. The site for the building lies on the Aquins’ spacious property. Aquin said the building’s design is in keeping with the exterior of his family’s historic home, a former convent that will be 100 years old in 2014.

Bridge Road recently constructed a similar adult living complex called Heartland Estates in Headingley, and is also working on another in Portage la Prairie.

The building in Elie will include underground parking, a large common room with a kitchen, and space for retailers such as a hair salon and small pharmacy.

Last month, the partners hosted a community information session to seek out possible investors and renters.

“We got a lot of good comments,” Aquin said.

“It was very positive.”

As well as older people who now live in Elie and want to sell their houses, but remain in the community, Aquin said people from surrounding communities also expressed interest.

With two units already leased, the partners need more renters and investors to sign up before they can put their spades in the ground. Once financing is in place, construction will take approximately a year to complete.

Aquin said the RM of Cartier is aware of his plans to sub-divide his property although he hasn’t sought official approval yet.

Cartier reeve Roland Rasmussen agreed that dedicated housing for local seniors is needed in the community.

Aquin and Bernardin plan to hold additional information sessions to promote Country Grove Estates.

For more information, Contact Aquin at 204-797-6584 or aquin@countrysignsmb.ca or Aggie Buhler with Bridge Road Developments at 1-855-309-8297 or abuhler@bridgeroad.ca.