Southend apartment development will increase Penticton’s rental unit pool

Penticton city council has given a thumbs up to a southend development that will increase the rental housing unit supply by eight per cent.

Council gave unanimous approval for a development permit to allow the construction of two apartment buildings containing a total of 180 units at 3790 South Main St., the site of a former campground.

Special projects manager Ben Johnson told council the proposal fit many of the OCP guidelines and policies, including its fit into an existing developed area, use of solar panels as an alternative energy source, extensive landscaping and behind-the-building parking.

The development would encompass four lots along South Main Street, which are currently undergoing a rezoning application from commercial campground to medium density multiple housing, as well as the consolidation of the four parcels into one.

Councillor Katie Robinson said the project “kind of warms your heart” as the developer was focussing on rental units as opposed to constructing higher-end residences.

“We really, really need the rental apartments. It’s nice to see this kind of development,” she said.

Council gave unanimous approval to the development permit following a public hearing yesterday, Nov. 5.

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