Neighbours of the proposed RTC Properties Ltd. development on Sechelt’s waterfront have started a petition and a Facebook page in the hopes of stopping RTC from moving forward.
RTC Properties Ltd. is proposing to build a 48-unit accessible development on Sechelt’s waterfront that includes buildings from two to six storeys in height.
The development has been pitched for three parcels of land at 5851 Sunshine Coast Hwy. and council has given it first reading, with the stipulation the developer must gather input from neighbours before a public hearing is scheduled.
Nearby resident Uwe Mummenhoff hasn’t been shy about sharing his views. He lives three properties away from the proposed development and is adamantly opposed to it.
“This would dramatically change the whole area and it would have a devastating effect,” Mummenhoff said, noting the other properties nearby are all single-family homes. “Anyone that I’ve talked to has said this is not the kind of development we need on the waterfront.”
He noted he’s not against development, but against the height and massing proposed for the RTC site, which he feels will negatively impact the surrounding neighbours as well as wildlife in the area and a botanical demonstration garden that’s been erected on Shorncliffe Avenue near the waterfront. The roadway will need to be widened if the development is approved, which could impact the garden.
In light of his concerns, Mummenhoff started a petition asking council to deny the rezoning needed for RTC. He has two copies at Sechelt area coffee shops, as well as four being circulated by residents. He’s also started an online petition accessible through his Responsible Rezoning of Sechelt Waterfront Facebook page.
Mummenhoff plans to continue amassing signatures until a public hearing is scheduled for RTC, so he can present the petition at that time.
He also said he’s sending a letter to council and has encouraged others to do the same.
