Esquimalt is moving forward with a developer’s proposal to combine two adjacent projects into a single 314-unit, mixed-use apartment complex.
Council unanimously approved a rezoning application on Monday to allow developer Aquila Pacific to combine the previously approved 106-unit Treehouse condo project and another 12-storey tower into a single complex at Esquimalt Road and Nelson Street.
Aquila Pacific president Harsimer Rattan told council the company decided to combine the projects after they were able to acquire more property on the block.
“We actually got Treehouse passed and then we were approached by the owner on the corner,” he said.
The proposed building would consolidate lots at 1319, 1331 and 1347 Sussex St. with lots at 602, 608, 612 and 618 Nelson St., which have been zoned for high density and mixed-use commercial use in Esquimalt’s official community plan.
The company requested an amendment to a comprehensive-development zone.
“Now it will come back for adoption with the housing agreement, as well,” said Esquimalt Mayor Barb Desjardins.
Rattan said the company also decided to move to a rental project and add street-oriented townhouses to the project in response to market demand and interest rates.
The developer has offered the northwest corner of Esquimalt Road at Nelson Street for a 5,000-square-foot park as a density bonus amenity, a move that was well received by council.
Council was broadly in support of the development, though some showed concerns about the massing and density of the project.
Out of the 314 units, a housing covenant would guarantee that 15 units be accessible and at least 26 be rented at below-market rates, for 30 per cent of a tenant’s household income.
Coun. Tim Morrison called the proposed development a “crowning jewel” in a neighbourhood that is seeing continued development.
Morrison lives near the area and said he expects the neighbourhood to be completely transformed within a few years.
“When this is all done, this is going to be a pretty amazing part of Esquimalt,” he said. “For the longest time, it’s probably been the most neglected part of our community.”
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