Developer Nautical Lands Group made its first pitch to town officials last week in hopes of building a retirement residence on the former KSR site.
The Ottawa-based company’s director of development, Peter Gregor, attended the town’s planning advisory committee meeting to provide details of the proposed development.
As its first step, the company is seeking a rezoning of the property to R6 (residential seniors’ development) from heavy industrial.
As it stands, the plan fits within the allowed density.
“We like the site because it’s in a residential neighbourhood, and this is residential in nature,” Gregor said, adding they also liked that the site was close to a walking trail, churches, seniors’ centre and hospital.
He said the kind of development they were proposing was somewhat of a new concept: a retirement residence with some assistant services. He said the company’s goal is to provide affordable housing in an environment that promotes independence for seniors, while also offering some services.
The company has three existing residences, in Alliston, Perth and Arnprior, and is currently in the midst of a similar process in Tillsonburg.
Gregor explained the plan for St. Marys calls for a total of 64-units – spread amongst a four-storey building which includes a mix of one and two bedroom suites, and 15 smaller “villas,” separate buildings for cluster housing. Each suite would have its own balcony.
Suite residents would be responsible for their own laundry, and each room would be fit with a “convenience kitchen,” whereas  staff would provide up to three meals a day  in a central dining area.
The building would also house an activity/social area, hair salon (with periodic salon services), and café for in between meal snacks and refreshments.
Gregor noted the “villa” style housing – four suites attached to a common living area with larger kitchen – is good for seniors who wish to be a bit more independent, while also saving on some costs.
Nautical Lands Group is awaiting a phase two environmental assessment and for the property to be cleaned up before finalizing purchase of the lot from Douglas Property Leasing.
They are also asking for an allowance from the town with regards to its height requirements. The town’s bylaw allows for up to three stories at 13.5 metres tall – the proposal comes in at only 13 metres, but one story too many.
Gregor said construction would last approximately 10-12 months. He noted the company has its own building division; however, they would look to tender with local and area workers.
Responding to questions from committee members, Gregor said they would like to take advantage of the site’s proximity to the Grand Trunk Trail, and would look at ways of enhancing the area.
A public meeting to hear more details about the development has been scheduled for Tuesday, April 6.