The City moved one step closer to approving a development permit for Platform Properties Ltd. to develop 10,000 square feet of retail space — or six storefront sites — at Prosperity Ridge, Tuesday night.
For now Platform’s development proposal will be forwarded to the advisory planning commission for comment and then come back to council for a decision.
In moving the application forward to the APC some members of council took Platform’s decision to develop as an endorsement of the community and its economy.
“Anytime you see a new development, that shows optimism in the future,” said Mayor Kerry Cook.
Coun. Geoff Bourdon said he was glad to see there was still confidence in that area and Coun. Sue Zacharias wondered what stores would be taking up residence. There was no word as to which retailers might be setting up shop.
In February, Platform, the new property owner, announced it would develop the site at 1185 Prosperity Way. In a press release, the developer said at the time, “This new shopping destination will offer approximately 100,000 square feet of retail space upon full build-out and will bring exciting, new retail opportunities including home improvement, fashion, restaurants and other retailers to service the community of Williams Lake.”
Last year the City amended a no-build covenant on the property to allow for the construction of up to 75,000 square feet of retail space on Prosperity Ridge’s developable land.
The amendment was made, as it was determined that any development to that size would not increase traffic in the Highway 20/South Lakeside/Hodgson corridor as much as was previously thought.
Developing beyond the 75,000 square feet will require a traffic study along the corridor to ensure traffic will not negatively impact the existing infrastructure.
At the time of the February announcement, Cook said the developer was aware of the restriction and the subsequent requirement. If and when a study becomes necessary it will be up to council who will be responsible for funding and potentially upgrading the corridor.
If the development permit is approved, the next step for Platform is to apply to the City for a building permit.