Victoria City Council gave the go-ahead to a five-storey development that some business owners say will dramatically change the make-up of Cook Street Village.
Council voted 6-3 late Thursday night to rezone land at Oliphant Avenue and Cook Street for residential and commercial use and increased density.
Councillors Ben Isitt, Pamela Madoff and Geoff Young were the only votes against.
The decision paves the way for a 53-unit building, 17 of which will be rentals, with storefronts along Cook Street.
After years of trying to get the project approved, developer Urban Core Ventures applauded council’s approval in a release Friday.
“We believe our building will be a cherished addition to Cook Street and will attract a dynamic cross-section of home buyers and renters in this very competitive market,” said UCV President Leonard Cole. “We have been given this rare opportunity to create a community asset that will bring an economic boost and added vitality to one of the most beloved neighbourhoods in Greater Victoria.”
But not everyone is cheering for the new development.
A petition against the project was launched in summer, and businesses again raised concerns at Thursday night’s council meeting.
They say, among other things, the new development will bring more commercial vehicles into the already dense neighbourhood.
The meeting stretched late into the night as dozens of people voiced their support and opposition to the project.
Construction on the project will get underway in spring 2017, with an estimated completion date of late 2018.
