A proposed fourplex housing project near Courtenay's downtown core received another nod from council Monday.
Council praised the plans for 932 Fifth St. and voted unanimously to approve the development permit with variances for the property.
"I was born and raised in this area," said Coun. Starr Winchester, "and it's so nice for me to see this style and this character of homes being built again because it's going to be a real boost to that area — so I'm really happy to vote in favour of this."
The property went through the City's rezoning process with no hitches earlier this fall.
Located near Apple Tree Market, the building is expected to feature a steeper roofline with gables and dormers to help reflect the heritage character of the area, and make the fourplex look simply like a house.
The plans feature two one-bedroom units on the bottom and two two-bedroom upper units, with a large communal urban-style garden area outside.
Coun. Jon Ambler pointed out the project is consistent with Comox Valley Regional Growth Strategy, and it's currently vacant.
"We're taking a lot that's truly not being used and we're going to be able to put multi-residential on it, and we're going to put it in, in such a way, that the community that surrounds that development is happy with it, which is exactly the path that we need to be on," said Ambler.
Acting Mayor Manno Theos added he's happy to see densification in the area, especially because the property will enable more people to live within walking distance to the downtown core.
writer@comoxvalleyrecord.com