Delta staff are reviewing the public feedback gathered on a proposed six-storey market rental building on Ladner Trunk Road before the proposal makes its way to council for consideration.
The rezoning, development variance and development permit proposal would see the new a six-storey purpose-built 78-unit rental building on a vacant lot at 5737 Ladner Trunk Rd., next to a gas station and the intersection at Ladner Trunk and 57th Street.
The application by Maple Leaf Homes is consistent with the Neighbourhood Centres and Corridors (NC) designation in the new Official Community Plan (OCP), according to the planning department.
A summary report on the feedback gathered notes five common themes were identified, reflecting “a mix of opposition and cautious support for development in Ladner, with emphasis on development that respects the community’s existing character and addresses concerns like traffic and parking.”
Regarding traffic and congestion, many respondents expressed worries about increased traffic congestion and highlighted existing traffic issues, particularly during peak hours. They were also concerned the development would exacerbate the problems, especially exiting onto the nearest exit at 57th Street.
Concerns were also conveyed about insufficient parking, the report notes, adding concerns were raised the development was not proposing enough.
The developer is asking for a variance to the required number of parking spaces from 86 to 40 residential parking spots, as well as two visitor spots and five rideshare spaces, which residents believe are insufficient.
Regarding community impact and scale, the report notes, “Participants voiced concerns that the scale and design of the development are not in keeping with Ladner’s small-town character. The proposed six-storey height was seen as excessive, with suggestions that a maximum of four storeys being more appropriate. There were also concerns about the building’s modern appearance clashing with the heritage style of the neighborhood and the character of Ladner in general.”
There was also mixed support for housing, as many also felt that the proposed development did not adequately address local needs or fit well within the community. Concerns were also conveyed about the adequacy of the current infrastructure.
Among the recommendations of a consultant’s traffic analysis, the city should monitor the intersection performance at 57th Street at Ladner Trunk Road and Harvest Drive at Ladner Trunk Road, and implement geometric or signal timing improvements as warranted.
Council recently granted final approval by another development application by Maple Leaf Homes nearby, a 40-unit townhouse development in the 4800 and 4900-block of 57th Street.
