Council has approved the Nicholas Street affordable housing development, with 13 votes in favor and 1 against. The project, led by Homes First, will provide 106 rental units, half at affordable rates, funded by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The site, located above Delhi Park, includes a five-story apartment building, townhouses, and supportive housing for those with special needs.
While the development promises affordable housing, a pathway to Delhi Park, and green space preservation, it has sparked significant opposition from local residents. Concerns include loss of tree canopy, increased traffic, and the impact on the neighborhood’s small-town feel. Residents also raised issues with the lack of sidewalks and potential construction hazards. However, planners emphasized that the project aligns with the municipality’s goals for affordable housing and will enhance park accessibility.
Councillors, including Roberts and MacNaughton, highlighted the pressing need for affordable housing in the area, noting the County’s declining working-age population and low rental vacancy rate. Despite opposition, the development is seen as crucial for addressing the housing crisis and promoting active transportation links. The project is expected to improve the community in the long term, though construction impacts remain a concern for many.
The County Council has paused new development applications in Picton, Wellington, and Bloomfield for one year due to water and wastewater capacity limitations. Current infrastructure can only support a fraction of the projected growth, with demands expected to exceed capacity by 2032. The pause allows time for a Development Charges Study to assess infrastructure needs and establish fees for new developments. Some applications, including those received by December 1 and the Queen Elizabeth development, are exempt. The study is expected to be completed by mid-2025, with a draft bylaw presented shortly after.
Exciting things are happening at Base31! Recently named New Business of the Year at the 2024 Quinte Business Achievement Awards, Base31 is moving full speed ahead with its ambitious development plans. The consortium has welcomed three new partners—CaraCo Group, Fieldgate Homes, and Paradise Developments—and is now focused on building a vibrant new community.
First up is Village A, a neighbourhood that will feature 481 new homes, including detached houses and townhouses. It’s designed with walkability in mind, featuring green spaces, bike paths, and laneways that de-emphasize car use. Plans also include a 120-unit apartment building with a mix of rental options, although only 5% will be affordable under CMHC standards.
The 29-hectare site, just south of Macaulay Heights, will include a central park and stormwater pond, all connected by pathways to nearby conservation areas. While the developers are still waiting on a Ministerial Zoning Order (MZO) for mixed-use zoning, construction on infrastructure is expected to start in early 2025, with homes arriving in 2026.
The best part? Base31 is committed to offering a range of housing options at different price points, aiming to provide housing for everyone. It’s a big step forward for the area, with more to come in the next few years!
For more details, check out this article in the Picton Gazette
