Charleswood seniors complex moving forward after appeal denied

A proposed housing development in Winnipeg’s Charleswood neighbourhood has cleared a city hall committee.

An attempt to stop a seniors complex from being developed on a sprawling Charleswood lot was stymied by the city’s appeal committee.

The committee voted against opposition to the continuance and variance for the lots at 4820 Roblin Blvd. This upholds the Assiniboia committee’s November decision to push the application through for council approval.

A number of residents submitted written appeals on the decision, with several others speaking against the project at the appeal meeting on Wednesday.

While discussing the matter, the committee said developers had largely addressed issues raised by residents.

“These are difficult conversations to have,” said Coun. Devi Sharma (Old Kildonan).

“It’s been a file that’s had both positive and negative feedback through the system, but our city is growing and there’s needs for housing, and the Charleswood community is in need of housing for older adults. This proposal, I believe, finds that balance.”

The proposed 55-plus housing project is pitched for a 2.64-acre site next to Charleswood United Church and several homes on Buckingham Road. The six-storey, 132-unit build would also include 200 parking stalls, 64 of those would be underground.

The development initially drew push back from residents last fall over concerns the project doesn’t match the nature of the neighbourhood, would cause flooding and increase traffic. Some worried tenants on the upper floors would be able to see into adjacent homes and yards.

For their part, developers have said their plan would improve the flooding situation and the existing tree canopy would offer privacy.

The application must now go before city council.

- With files from CTV’s William Reimer and Taylor Brock