CAMBRIDGE — A proposed affordable housing project by Habitat for Humanity at 325 Shantz Hill Road has sparked controversy, leading to an appeal filed with the Ontario Land Tribunal.
The appeal from neighbours Martin and Gerda Wiens cites concerns over compatibility, density, natural/environmental features, the safety of entering and leaving the site, and affordability.
The project, aimed at addressing housing affordability issues, seeks to redevelop a .81-hectare site currently zoned as R3 with an Official Plan designation of low/medium density residential.
The proposed development, coordinated by MHBC on behalf of Habitat for Humanity, includes two blocks of stacked townhouses, each standing 3.5 storeys tall.
A total of 24 units, with 12 in each block, are planned, providing a density of 32 units per hectare, which requires no amendment as it is under the maximum permitted density of 40 units per hectare.
In terms of amenities, the development plans to provide 30 surface parking spaces, comprising 24 dedicated to residents, four for visitors, and two barrier-free spaces.
Common amenity areas and landscaped spaces are also part of the proposal, fostering a sense of community within the development.
Access to the site will be facilitated via a driveway and sidewalk connection from Shantz Hill Road, with parking spaces situated along the driveway.
Notably, the proposal includes a 15-metre setback to a nearby wetland, demonstrating efforts to preserve natural features and mitigate environmental impacts.
The project aims to align with existing and future development patterns in the region, maintaining compatibility with surrounding low and medium density residential areas.
The site is proposed to be rezoned from R3 zone to RM3-XX, with special provisions allowing for reduced setbacks and common amenity area sizes to accommodate the development. Furthermore, the proposal seeks adjustments to parking requirements.
Key special provisions include a reduced interior side yard setback of 2.2 meters (compared to the required 7.5 meters), a common amenity area of 167m² (instead of the required 720m²), and visitor parking at a rate of 0.2 spaces per unit (four spaces), below the required 0.25 spaces per unit (six spaces).
Additionally, as part of the project incentives, development charges will be waived, and all City permit and application fees will be exempted.
While the project aims to address pressing housing needs, concerns raised by neighbouring residents have prompted the appeal, signalling potential challenges in balancing affordable housing initiatives with community interests.
As the appeal proceeds, stakeholders await further developments on the fate of this proposed affordable housing endeavour.
