Developer braces for opposition

Developer Tim Banks expects some complaints about housing proposed for Charlottetown’s Waterfront, but not as much as when he planned a new corporate headquarters there.

His Atlantic Property Management wants to build 36 townhouses on Water Street, on land owned by the Charlottetown Harbour Authority. Charlottetown residents will have a chance to voice their opinions and concerns over the plans at a public meeting Tuesday evening.

“This is a good opportunity to provide some homes for the people that are going to work in those prospective jobs”

APM President Tim Banks said with new businesses coming to Charlottetown, more housing is needed.

“The province has done a huge deal here with Trimark. There’s also the CGI in Stratford and I understand another one yet to be announced,” said Banks.

“This is a good opportunity to provide some homes for the people that are going to work in those prospective jobs, and reinforce and help the density issue in the downtown.”

APM had planned to build a new head office on the same property in 2005, but pulled the proposal after facing opposition from local residents and zoning difficulties with city council.

Banks said he expects the new plan will draw less criticism but still expects some opposition.

The $7 million proposal needs to be approved by the planning board and city council before it can move ahead. APM wants to start construction in spring of 2007.

The Public hearing will be held Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Rodd Charlottetown Hotel.