Application: Consolidate two existing RS-12 zoned parcels and resubdivide to create four lots with a site-specific single family zone.
Result: Proposed
Summary: Molto Bene Enterprises has applied to rezone and subdivide two adjacent properties located at 3327 Richmond Road and 1910 Argyle Avenue. The existing properties are within the RS-12 zone which has a minimum lot size 930m2 (0.23a), or 1,300m2 (0.32a) for panhandle lots. The new site-specific zone will allow for subdivision into four properties in total ranging in lot size from 575m2 (0.14a) to 736m2 (0.18a).
The Camosun Community Association conducted a survey of neighbouring residences from April 29th until May 22nd, 2018.
Timeline and Supporting Documents:
- Community Survey – April 29, 2018
- Updated Plans – January 10, 2018
- October 17, 2017
- Site Plan – September 25, 2017
- Community Meeting – August 24, 2017
Camosun Community Association
Community Survey Summary
for
1910 Argyle Road & 3327 Richmond Road proposed rezoning
Distribution
- 46 surveys were distributed by volunteers to all dwellings within 110m of the subject properties. An additional 77 surveys were distributed to the remaining properties in the ‘Mount Tolmie Slopes’ (Argyle, Ernest, Waterloo, and Woodley Roads) at the request of residents for a total of 123 surveys distributed.
- Surveys were distributed during the first week of May 2018, with a deadline for returns on May 22 nd .
Responses
- 70 surveys were returned (57% response rate), including 18 within the original 110m radius area (39% response rate).
- Of the surveys returned, 68 indicated “Not in support” (97%) and 2 indicated “No objections” (3%).
- Within the 110m radius, 17 indicated “Not in support” and 1 indicated “No objections”.
Comments / Concerns
In descending order, listed by # of surveys where comment was made. Comments made fewer than two times not included.
- 18 comments that the RS-12 zoning should not be changed with references made to the Mount Tolmie Slopes policy in the Shelbourne Local Area Plan.
- 16 comments that rezoning or subdivision threatens the natural state of the neighbourhood, including concerns regarding the Garry-oak ecosystem and protection of individual trees.
- 8 comments indicating concern with increased traffic, especially along Richmond Road at the bend between Ernest and Argyle.
- 5 comments that no increase in density should occur.
- 4 comments that rock blasting will be disruptive.
- 4 comments that larger lots should be retained.
- 3 comments that the number of dwellings being accessed via one shared driveway on Richmond Road will be too many.
- 3 comments that the historic character of the neighbourhood would be compromised by a newer subdivision.
Our own CCA Director Vicki Sanders submitted a letter to the Saanich Planning Department considering this proposed rezoning. No stranger to Saanich and its processes, Vicki managed to include a few positive points; however, they were regarding the neighbourhood. The majority of the points she raised would be considered criticisms. You may read her letter here.
Here Vicki details issues the application has with zoning requirements
- Policy 6.8 in the Shelbourne Local Area Plan states that the zoning on the properties on the Mt. Tolmie Slopes is to be maintained as a minimum RS-12 parcel size. The two properties being requested for rezoning are in the Mt. Tolmie slopes. The site specific zone being applied for does not meet the Mt. Tolmie slopes policy 6.8.
- The RS-12 zoning put in place in 1990 has allowed for increased density and sensitive infill while maintaining the character of the RS-12 community.
- The rezoning being requested is a site specific zone due to the number of variances required.
- It does not meet the requirements of the subdivision bylaw for lot size, width, depth, setbacks and access. The building envelopes have flipped the front and rear.
