Dave Mabell
LETHBRIDGE HERALD
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More people and more preservation: those are two goals in a new redevelopment plan for Staffordville.
The northside neighbourhood, dating back to coal-mining days, is the first in a series of residential areas where property owners and tenants are being invited to look to the future. Senior planner Robert McKay unveiled a draft proposal for residents there Tuesday.
It focuses on preserving the historical character of the neighbourhood, while encouraging redevelopment and possibly higher population density.
"This neighbourhood goes to our very roots," he points out.
The Galt No. 4 coalmine provided jobs for the first residents, and McKay says some of the miners' "cabins" remain in use. One of the goals of the new area redevelopment plan, he says, could be to ensure some of them are maintained.
Most of the homes in the area are single family, he reports, and the report sees that density continuing. But on the periphery - along 9 Avenue and Stafford Avenue and Stafford Drive North, townhouses or similar structures with higher density might be considered.
And where lots are wide enough, the redevelopment plan could also allow them to be subdivided to allow duplexes.
McKay says the draft plan calls for infill homes and other new projects to blend in with neighbouring structures, using similar finishes and keeping garages and parking pads to the rear of the homes.
"The shade trees and sidewalks will be protected," he says.
The plan also recognizes residents' requests for a little park space. That could happen if the owner of a larger, suitable property decided to sell rather than redevelop.
"A little park could offer a playground and a few park benches to sit and talk with your neighbours."
Once Staffordville residents' comments are received and considered, McKay says a final plan will be put together and then a formal public hearing called. Later this year, he'll be taking a new Staffordville redevelopment bylaw to city council for approval.
The city's London Road neighbourhood will be looked at next, but McKay says more of the city's mature districts will follow.