Sidney council has given third reading to a redevelopment proposal of Cedarwood Inn & Suites at 9522 Lochside Drive that will repurpose the largest contiguous parcel of land in south Sidney from transient lodging to ocean view housing.

 

 

Envisioned on more than three acres across from Sidney's waterfront Tulista Park, developer GMC Projects with architectural firm Ekistics Architecture have proposed a 97-unit mixed-use condominium, townhome and light commercial project immediately south of Sidney's town core.

 

As part of a Zoning Amendment and Development Permit application that got underway in 2020, GMC Projects' plans include a three-storey massing for a 49-unit condominium building on Lochside Drive at Weiler Avenue, with a small cafe or eatery component overlooking the intersection, and residential units in one-bedroom through three-bedroom plus-den configurations. A collection of 48 two-and-a-half-storey, two and three-bedroom family-oriented townhomes are planned for the west and largest portion of the property, along Weiler Avenue, most of which will enjoy ocean views.

 

"We are excited about the vision that has developed on the backside of the Official Community Plan and in consultation with our immediate and nearby neighbours," Jordan Milne, President & CEO of GMC Projects told Citified in 2023, adding:

 

"This proposal creates a diversity of housing types to enable a variety of households to find a future home here. While our condo offering will likely appeal to a more downsizer demographic, we are excited to have townhomes to encourage a younger family demographic and enable the potential for multi-generational living across the project."

 

A common rooftop outdoor amenity area with views across the Salish Sea will be situated atop the condominium building, with a barbecue zone, dining, games and socialization spaces.

 

Milne further stated, that despite the townhomes being further inland on the property, the units have been "purposefully designed to maximize ocean views," with the majority including private, ocean view rooftop patios. Townhome residents will also enjoy a nearly 9,000 square foot private inner courtyard for entertaining and barbecues, with socializing, games and entertainment spaces, in a setup catering to family use.

 

Capacity for vehicles at the condominium building will total 88 stalls, with 52 stalls for bicycles. Ten vehicle spots will be reserved for guests, and four for commercial visitors. The townhomes will include 106 parking stalls in the form of two-car garages, plus 10 visitor spots.

 

Earlier plans from GMC saw a setback 5-storey mixed-use condominium along the Lochside frontage and 3 storey townhomes on the balance, while prior to GMC's involvement, a developer from BC's interior pitched a concept for three six-storey buildings that included a hotel component.

 

A sales campaign is anticipated by fall of this year, with construction starting in 2025. C

 

© Copyright 2024 by Citified.ca. All rights reserved.