A scaled down version, in the right place, with the right approach, got council’s approval for duplex zoning Monday night.
However, it didn’t happen without a handful of people voicing concern over setting a precedent with the spot zoning for 2280 Estevan Ave., the lot on the northwest corner at Estevan and Cadboro Bay Road.
Some took it as an indication all properties of a certain size would be rezoned duplex, while others took it as an indication the district will be open to rezoning for duplexes under the newly created zoning for that site.
The latest application, which fit within the footprint allowed on the site for a single family home, was deemed acceptable by all councillors. The plan originated as a triplex and was twice downsized and this application made in February after an application was denied last year.
Councillors each made statements, all deeming the proposed duplex scale appropriate and in the right location.
“I firmly believe that a progressive vision and retention of community character and values are not mutually exclusive, and in fact are the foundations of the new OCP. Further, there was widespread support for duplexes coming out of the OCP survey and the public forums,” said Coun. Pam Copley.
“If approved, this proposal, which has been in progress for a considerable length of time and is site specific, does not create a precedent for future duplexes in Oak Bay. The future of duplex zoning in Oak Bay as a whole will be reviewed and considered by the next council with further public consultation in the implementation phase of the OCP and will include design guidelines.”
The property, once the bylaw is adopted, would be rezoned two-family residential allowing for one or two family use on a lot area not less than 663 square metres with open space of not less than 170 square metres per dwelling unit.
Council approved third reading of the bylaw which still requires a land title covenant to be fulfilled before it will come back for final adoption.