Developer to HRM: Two more storeys please
HALIFAX, N.S. — A developer currently building a tower on Quinpool Road in Halifax is looking for more height.
Dexel Developments is building an eight storey plus penthouse building on the site where the McDonalds and Fitness FX used to sit.
They’re asking to tack on two more storeys which would add 38 units for a total of 193.
The amendment to the existing development agreement came up at the Halifax and West Community Council on Tuesday night. The committee voted to consider the amendment and schedule a public hearing.
“It’s adding more density to something we’ve already approved so, I’m in favour of moving this to a public hearing to see what people say,” said Coun. Shawn Cleary (Halifax West Armdale).
It is considered a mixed-rise, mixed-use development facing Quinpool and Pepperell Street and construction started in March.
Thea Langille, HRM manager of planning applications, said in this situation there was a possibility from the beginning that there could be a height increase, “but we didn’t want to do it for the whole street or for the whole area.”
So for some specific locations, she said HRM has specific policies to allow developers to amend their existing development agreement.
This development was highlighted when HRM made many planning changes earlier this year to access the federal Housing Accelerator Fund for adding density in strategic locations. In this case, the development was flagged for achieving additional housing in an area that’s designated for housing and close to transit.
Source: Saltwire.com