NOTL councillors have approved a modified development proposal for a residential project on a former church parking lot in Virgil. The decision comes after public opposition led to significant changes to the original plan.
Last September, during a public meeting, nearby homeowners voiced strong objections to a proposed five-storey apartment building with 24 units, and 14 townhouses, citing the development’s height and density. Neighbours living along Penner Street argued that the structure would create a large, imposing “wall” and disrupt their privacy.
Among the critics, Kenneth Enns expressed frustration that the development at 1570 Niagara Stone Rd. would block his previously scenic view, while Dorothy Froese warned that the proposed townhouses would “tower over” the surrounding homes, undermining the area’s peace and privacy.
In response to these concerns, the developer, Raimondo and Associates Architects Inc., adjusted the project. The number of townhouses was reduced to eight, and their height was capped at one storey. The apartment building, meanwhile, was scaled down from five storeys to four, with recessed balconies for improved neighbourhood privacy. The planned rooftop amenities were removed, and the number of windows was reduced. Parking arrangements were also revised, maintaining two spaces per unit but reducing visitor spots from 12 to nine.
The property, which spans 0.47 hectares, was severed in 2023 after Cornerstone Church determined it no longer needed such an extensive parking area. The church’s office had also been relocated to Hunter Road. Councillors later approved an official plan amendment and zoning bylaw to change the land’s designation from village commercial holding to residential, allowing for the newly proposed apartment building, townhouses, and a private roadway.
Coun. Gary Burroughs commended both town staff and the developer for being receptive to community feedback. He pointed out that resident opposition directly influenced the revised proposal. “Here are changes that were made because of the public meeting,” Burroughs said.
