Plans are moving forward for new residential developments in Hawkesbury.
On November 29, town council accepted an application for a Zoning By-law Amendment (ZBA) to change the zoning from Residential Density 2 (R2) to Residential Density 4 (R4) at 290 Champlain Street. The building on the property is a former school, which a developer plans to convert into 17 apartment units. Mayor Paula Assaly declared a conflict of interest on the item and temporarily left the meeting, while Councillor Antonios Tsourounakis took over as chair.
A public zoning meeting on the proposal was held on November 4. One resident who lives across from the property expressed concern the new apartments would result in increased vehicle traffic in the neighbourhood and make it less safe for pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers. The resident was also concerned the adjacent apartment building would diminish the value of their home. Other Champlain Street residents commented on the present degraded state of the former school building and how there would be increased traffic if the apartment development proceeds.
On November 29, there were no further comments or questions from councillors about the application for the ZBA. The recommendation to accept the application was moved by Councillor Lawrence Bogue and seconded by Councillor Robert Lefebvre.
Former PPG land
The Town of Hawkesbury is also in the process of preparing to close part of Industriel Boulevard on the former PPG plant lands due to residential development proposed for the area. The area affected is south of the railroad tracks behind the mall and includes the entrance to the heliport used by Hawkesbury and District General Hospital to airlift patients. However, access to the heliport will be maintained for ambulance use.
A multi-phase development of single-family, semi-detached, and apartment dwellings are planned for the former PPG property.
