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The Guardian
Feb 3, 2006

Stratford approves rezoning for retail

Stratford Town Council has approved a rezoning application that could see a new major retail business in the community, but local residents intend to continue their fight against it.

APM wants to build what's believed to be a Superstore on the Trans-Canada Highway next to Sobey's. People living behind the proposed development have raised concerns about traffic, noise, bright lighting and runoff from storms.

Council was supposed to make a decision last month, but the developer asked for a delay to try to resolve the concerns. Stratford Mayor Kevin Jenkins says he and council are now satisfied the developer has done its part.

"The initial request that came forth contained three parcels to be rezoned; the developer has withdrawn the request from one of the parcels, so that certainly moves the commercial development a little further away from residences," says Jenkins.

"The storm water system is considerably different now from what was proposed a short time ago, so I think we've made some good strides in addressing some of the concerns of residents."

But the group of residents opposed to the plan say the development would still be too close to them. As well, a spokesperson says the town should not be rezoning properties in that area until it finalizes its official plan.

The group says it intends to appeal the town's decision to the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission.