An informational session regarding a potential housing development near the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park kicked off with the developer informing local residents that construction could potentially commence soon. Marchand Developments is proposing a subdivision comprising up to 93 lots in Shubenacadie East, situated off St. Andrews River Road and Lynch Road.
Trevor Adams, the director of land development at the Nova Scotia-based company, explained that the plan involves constructing private roads, necessitating a rezoning to rural residential. This approach aims to reduce construction expenses. Adams emphasized the goal of keeping land development costs to a minimum to offer affordable housing options rather than expensive lots due to the higher costs associated with public road construction.
Reid Shepherd, the director of community development for the Municipality of Colchester, mentioned that if the roads were constructed to municipal standards, the development could be permitted on the agricultural-zoned land without further approvals.
Despite the company’s explanations, around 40 individuals at the West St. Andrews community hall remained skeptical during the meeting on Thursday evening. Kaley St-Jean, a local resident residing near the proposed subdivision, expressed concerns about existing issues like dry wells and questioned the responsibility of adding up to 93 homes to the area.
St-Jean, who received an official notice of the open house, took it upon herself to inform the wider community through mailouts and social media posts.