Committee denies application for front driveway

Point Douglas

Inkster Industrial

The Lord Selkirk-West Kildonan community committee held a regular meeting on the morning of Nov. 24. Several plans for the area were discussed.

Notably, the committee denied plans for a non-conforming approach at 958 Alfred Ave., which would have allowed for the construction of a front driveway for a single-family home currently only accessible from the back lane.

“I am a senior living alone, and during the last year I have been mugged (twice) in the back lane upon leaving my house,” the applicant wrote.

“I have become very afraid of leaving or entering my home through the back-entrance driveway. I avoid going out or coming in after dark. In times past, I have also missed a doctor’s appointment due to snow and ice build-up in my back lane, and not being able to make it out on time.”

According to Coun. Vivian Santos (Point Douglas), the application was denied due to it “not keeping with the context of the area,” as well as it having the potential of “setting a precedent in the area,” which doesn’t typically have front vehicle access.

Also at the meeting, a hearing took place regarding a rezoning at 1565 Inkster Blvd., across from Hutchings Street in the Inkster Industrial Park neighbourhood. The rezoning properly classifies the property on which the Habitat for Humanity ReStore is situated. The store resells new and used building materials to the general public at affordable prices.

The committee approved the rezoning, as well as a variance to allow for the maintenance of a retail space.

Plans for seven townhouse buildings on vacant land north of Fernbank Avenue in the Old Kildonan neighbourhood were brought to the committee, but were laid over until the next meeting at the request of the applicant. If approved, this will serve as an extension of the Highland Pointe community. The townhouses would range from three to two storeys — and two different styles — for up to a total of 45 units.

Plans for an apartment complex at 2730-2750 King Edward St. were also laid over. If approved, the site will include 99 units in six storeys, as well as a multi-purpose room, a gym and an indoor pool for tenants.