The community of Blenheim is potentially set to see significant growth in its population over the next few years as Chatham-Kent council approved a zoning bylaw amendment to allow for the creation of a new residential development subdivision.
Clarke and Nelson Developments Inc. is proposing to build 174 single detached homes along with townhouse and apartment buildings, along with neighbourhood commercial and open space at Marlborough Street North and Nazarene Road.
The proposed development is on 45 acres of land on the west side of Blenheim.
While the residential development is seen as a boon and positive by some, it is also met with some opposition by Blenheim residents, including two who made deputations at Monday’s planning meeting.
A petition against the development has also been circulated and sent to Chatham-Kent’s clerk’s office.
An issue for many people is the proposed apartment buildings, which will bring a large number of people living in a small area.
Council voted 12-2 in favour of a zoning bylaw amendment to move the residential development forward. South Kent councillor Ryan Doyle was one of the two councillors who voted against the residential development. Doyle said he was initially in favour of the development, but after hearing the concerns of residents regarding the apartment buildings, he decided to vote against the zoning bylaw.