[statbass]

Source: VOCM, May 28, 2012.

St. John's city council will consider this evening an application to rezone property in Quidi Vidi Village to accommodate a controversial 5-story 24-unit apartment building. Councillor Bruce Tilley says in his opinion the proposed project, to be situated on the site of the old school house, is just not right for the area.

He says he knows the passion and love people have for the village and the proposed project just doesn't measure up. Tilley is the Chair of the city's Economic, Tourism and Culture Committee. He says the city is about to open Quidi Vidi Plantation, as another major draw to the area. He says it will give the province the opportunity to showcase our history, culture and art.

The proposal was not well-received at a recent public meeting. Residents expressed concerns about everything from parking and traffic, to how the development would impact the heritage-look of the area. The Department of Planning also weighed in, stating that the rezoning application is not in keeping with the planning policies for Quidi Vidi Village. Powderhouse Hill Investments wants to put a 24-unit building on land off Forest Road. Officials with Powderhouse have said they want to work with the city to find a solution to the concerns expressed, but Councilor Frank Galgay says he'll be recommending rejection of the proposed development at tonight's council meeting, not only for the benefit of the area, but for all citizens and visitors to, what he calls, a "very historic landmark".

Galgay says, Quidi Vidi Village is a jewel for tourism for the City of St. John's. He says they will continue to keep its unique and distinct character with developments that fit into its landscape.

http://www.vocm.com/newsarticle.asp?...23508&latest=1

The writing was on the wall with this one right from the get go. Although, I'm in agreement here -> a proposal with little character + area with a lot of character = No go. Those buildings just did not look nice at all!