Owen Sound’s downtown will soon have a new subdivision — but it won’t look so new.
Council has given developer Barry Kruisselbrink final approval for a development at the old OSCVI site.
That approval came with a big requirement — council has architectural control over the project.
Councillor and Community Planning Advisory Committee Chair Deb Haswell says that means council has control over the look and style of the subdivision — everything from brick and paint colour to roof lines and window designs.
Haswell says the new homes will be red brick or have stone cladding, while other features like turrets, large trees, and a sidewalk will also ensure the new subdivision fits in with the surrounding neighbourhood.
The architectural control also extends beyond the initial construction – Haswell says the future homeowners will need city approval for any exterior changes.
Haswell says council was able to gain the control after recent changes to the Ontario Planning Act that allow municipalities to create guidelines for new homes.
She says it’s an important measure as many communities look to infill and create more residential developments in older neighbourhoods.
While this is the first time Owen Sound council has exercised this power, she can see it happening more in the future and says it represents great opportunities.
Haswell says she has heard from current homeowners in the area and says while they were worried about the development before, they’re now pleased about the measures being taken.
The subdivision at 10th Street East and 5th Avenue East will include 46 single-storey townhouses, 3 two-storey townhouses, and 11 single-family homes.
Haswell expects construction will begin this spring.