Leave O’Loane alone? Concerned residents object to apartment buildings

Some residents are opposed to three apartment buildings proposed for O’Loane Avenue.

At a public meeting at Stratford City Council on Monday, there was opposition to zone changes needed to permit multiple two-storey buildings.

Concerns include removal of trees and impact to local wildlife, privacy for the existing residential lots, an increase in density, traffic and overflow parking.

One resident noted the property is an old grove orchard, with a lot of natural wildlife.

The lot, at 963 O’Loane Ave., is near the Stratford Education Recreation Complex, the Bell Court neighbourhood and not far from the city’s two high schools. 

Thirty-eight units are proposed, including two affordable housing units. Each of the three buildings will have 12 to 14 one or two bedroom apartments with accessible ground floor suites.

Coun. Larry McCabe noted the tone and professionalism of the meeting’s presenters, from the planner, applicant and concerned residents, a sentiment which Mayor Martin Ritsma echoed.

Comments from the public meeting will be included in the final planning recommendation to be presented to council at a later date.