A developer in Steinbach has received approval from city council to build two apartment blocks on three existing residential properties at 242, 246 and 250 Hanover Street. Those properties back onto E.A. Friesen Park next to the library. Developer Craig Barkman required a Conditional Use permit to build multi-family housing in a commercial zone and also asked for Variance to forego the requirement for a business component on the main floor. Both were approved.

Neighbours suggested they would prefer a two storey building and had mixed feelings about having the buildings at the back of the lot with parking out front.

Councillor Michael Zwaagstra says, in the end, council felt the developer had largely addressed neighbours' concerns.

"We feel this is an appropriate use of that land. This is a transition zone and so it makes sense to have medium density (housing) within it. We felt that the developer did a good job of speaking to neighbours, many of them ahead of time, in addressing any questions and concerns that have already been raised. In terms of the placement, right by E.A. Friesen Park, it makes sense to have some higher density there. It makes sense to allow it to go ahead."

Council noted, as a commercial property, a much taller building could have been built there and it is okay with a three storey structure.

Councillor Jac Siemens feels the project is a very good fit for the area.

"This project will transition from the downtown core to residential across the street. For me, the project fits. It looks good and it fits into our overall picture and gets more people downtown. More people means more walkablity, that vehicles stay home and you walk, all those things."

Councillor John Fehr agrees.

"We want to revitalize the downtown and we can't just do that with commercial and recreational facilities. We need people too."

The two apartment blocks will have from 12 to 16 suites each, depending on final design plans.