Essa Road development moves forward, despite residents disapproval

Barrie Mayor Jeff Lehman says he expects to hear from residents opposed to a townhouse development on Essa Road next week, prior to council's final vote on the issue.

A request to rezone 401 Essa Rd., opening the doors for a 45 townhouses development by Sean Mason Homes received a green light from general committee on Monday. The 2.7-acre site is located on the west side of Essa Road, north of Ferndale Drive.

Final approval is expected at Council's June 27 meeting.

“When you go from trees and open fields and animals to the backs of townhouses, it really changes your community,” said Coun. Michael Prowse, who represents the neighbourhood.

Prowse said although he supports residents and is disappointed with the development, he supports rezoning because it was recommended by city planning staff.

Those opposed are concerned about traffic volume, noise and the changing character of the neighbourhood which they argue will negatively impact their property values.

Prowse said he is confident that issues can be addressed at the site plan stage with additional trees.

The project demands variances including higher density than the zoning bylaw permits, shorter front and rear yard setbacks and smaller driveways.

Residents "are looking for the development to not interfere in their neighbourhood, and their very prestigious views to be unchanged,” Prowse said.

According to planning staff, the project conforms with provincial and city policies and increased traffic will not have an negative impact.

The Essa Road corridor is identified as anintensification areas in the city. Urban design guidelines were created to direct new development in these intensification areas.