Council to consider rezoning for 3 properties on Westminster Avenue West

On Tuesday, Penticton City Council is expected to make a decision on a rezoning application that would facilitate the development of two, three-story mixed-use buildings.

MQN Architects is looking to rezone 713, 737 and 795 Westminster Avenue West from the tourist commercial and small lot residential zones to the comprehensive development zone.

A development permit was also submitted for council’s consideration.

The first building would include office space and 11 “live work” townhouse units that front onto Westminster Ave West.

City staff say that these units would allow for residents to live and carry out their business operations in the same connected unit, similar to a home occupation.

The second would have the same number of residential units but would front onto the rear lane.

“The site is prominently located at the intersection of Westminster Avenue West and Power Street, within walking distance of Okanagan Lake Beach, Lakawanna Park, the Trade and Convention Centre, Community Centre, and Riverside Plaza,” explains staff.

This property is across the street from the El Rancho site which is currently in the redevelopment process.

City staff recommended that the proposal be forwarded to the June 7, 2022 public hearing.

Staff also recommend that before any rezoning is adopted, a number of conditions be met.

Those include the following sections of roadway being registered with the land title office:

• A 0.9m road dedication along the Westminster Avenue West frontage

• An 8.5m by 8.5m corner cut at the southwest corner of the property, at the intersection of Westminster Avenue West and Power Street

• A 3.5m by 3.5m corner cut at the northeast corner of the property, at the intersection of the lanes

This proposal will be presented during the regular council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 17 at 1 pm.