New apartment complex proposed for Marina Way

PENTICTON – Marina Way could be headed for some changes following a decision by council to allow a zoning change and development permit, and variances on several properties fronting the street.

Penticton planning manager Blake Laven unveiled the developer’s plans to construct a 13-unit, seven-storey apartment building on a piece of land consolidated from 201, 203, 225 and 247 Vancouver Avenue at a council meeting Tuesday, July 3.

Three of the lots fronting Vancouver Avenue that currently have houses on them would see the portions fronting Marina Way used for the development, with the three houses remaining on the properties pending a townhouse development at a later date. Two of the properties would require variances following subdivision to allow for undersized lots.

The proposed apartment would front Marina Way, and would require a zoning amendment on some of the properties from duplex housing and tourist commercial to C9, Marina Way commercial.

Laven said the proposal fits the vision for the area to create a "mixed use, vibrant people place” on Marina Way.

He did note, however, the first floor of the building would only contain one residential unit as the rest of the floor was to be a parking garage.

Council voiced their support for the project, with two councillors expressing some reservations about the main level being designated for parking.

“It’s great to see some interest there,” Mayor Andrew Jakubeit said, adding it has been several years since there has been development on Marina Way.

The proposal will be subject to a public hearing on July 17.

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