Chatham-Kent council has voted to approve rezoning a section of land for the construction of a new multi-use apartment building in Blenheim.
The planned multi-use apartment will be located at 247 Talbot Street West between James Street and Mountford Street. The land which is zoned for urban commercial use will be rezoned for site-specific residential use.
According to a report presented to council, the rezoning will permit the development of a six-story mixed-use residential apartment building. The building is planned to contain 85 units within the second to sixth story and surface parking at ground level.
“The site is vacant and has remained undeveloped since about 2013," the report read. "Our research indicated it was a fruit co-operative since the late 1930s and early 1940s. It was known as the 'old cherry co-op,' where weighing, storing, packaging, and selling fruits was completed."
The new proposal seeks to amend the zoning regulations to the apartment building's height, density, and parking ratio.
"In providing 85 new rental dwelling units, this project will meet the definition of a major rental housing development, which is the type of development the municipality is targeting," the report read.
"It provides opportunities for being a healthier and progressive place, and respects the developer's choice, style, and budget for the project."
Looking forward to the lot no longer being vacant, South Kent Councillor Trevor Thompson said it will be nice to see some growth in Blenheim.
"Everybody is really happy to see the site of the former cherry co-op no longer be vacant," said Thompson. "Blenheim has missed out on the growth that other parts of the municipality have seen, so it's really good to see this move forward."
The front profile of the proposed building at 247 Talbot Street West.