A proposal for a development consisting of over 260 apartments in the north end of Saint John received initial approval from city council members on Monday evening, with the aim of revitalizing the area. The project, led by Nova Scotia developer Rob LeBlanc of Fathom Studio, involves constructing three buildings ranging from five to six stories near Lansdowne Plaza along Sears Street, between Lansdowne Avenue and Harrington Street.
Upon completion, the apartment complex will be in close proximity to various amenities, including a Sobeys grocery store, Shoppers Drug Mart, Pet Value, and public transportation routes. Plaza Corp. Property Holdings has sought rezoning of the 3.79-acre site from general commercial to mid-rise residential to accommodate the new development. The site, previously occupied by a department store and office building that were demolished in 2013, has remained vacant since then.
The proposed project includes outdoor recreational spaces, landscaped green areas, underground and surface parking facilities, as well as pedestrian connections to the surrounding vicinity. The development aims to offer townhouse units with individual entrances to enhance accessibility and provide green spaces for residents and the community to enjoy.
The project aligns with a long-term growth plan for the north end approved by the previous council in May, emphasizing housing growth alongside recreation and commercial expansion. Councilor Brian Wyatt, representing the north end, views this development as a crucial step in realizing the growth plan and enhancing the area’s appeal as a vibrant neighborhood. Mayor Donna Reardon also expressed approval for the project, highlighting its potential to drive growth and enhance the overall community experience.
The development proposal includes provisions for accessible units in compliance with provincial regulations, ensuring that a portion of the residential complex meets accessibility standards. While the project has received one supportive and one opposing letter, residents have yet to voice their concerns directly at public hearings. The final approval of the project hinges on a third reading, which is pending council review. The timeline for the development remains flexible, subject to market conditions and further evaluation by the company to ensure successful implementation.