Divided Woodlea faces city council, carriage home rejected

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He added, “From the moment you put in an application for development, there are a lot of parts that you have to go through. It’s just time-consuming.”

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Duhamel calls his proposal an example of urbanism and a good one for both Woodlea and Red Deer. He is committed to bringing his proposal back at a later date. He also noted efforts to situate the kitchen and bedroom in places where privacy for other homes wouldn’t be an issue, as well as using special glazing on the windows.

Meanwhile, a divide between residents in Woodlea will rage on, he says. Homeowners have been split on the issue of Duhamel’s proposal for a carriage home.

Jane Proudlove, president of the Woodlea Community Association said during the public hearing she remains staunchly opposed to the idea of a carriage home in her neighbourhood.

“There are approximately 190 lots and there are currently about 20 legal secondary suites in Woodlea. We have R1, R2, and R3 zoning all within the Woodlea neighbourhood, but I really don’t think every neighbourhood has to offer every choice,” she said. “I’m not opposed to change in my neighbourhood. There’s going to be change and there has been change. However, I am opposed to site exceptions which would change the very fabric of the neighbourhood, which makes Woodlea such a gem.”

Others voiced support because of the area’s large lot sizes and desire to be innovative and grow the neighbourhood instead of being stuck in the past. The point was also made by some that there are lots in the neighbourhood which are far from in prime condition.

Several councillors spoke about the squabbling and the angst it has stirred up between neighbours.

“I’ve read some very personal attacks, and on both sides of this issue are people that I know quite well. When I see really caustic attacks, that really bothers me,” said Michael Dawe.

Mayor Tara Veer added, “Some want to preserve character, others want to pursue progress there… modernize and elevate standards. I don’t know that we’re going to be able to do to resolve that neighbourhood division.”

The City is currently undergoing a study of carriage homes which looks at Red Deer in its entirety.  

Ken Johnston and Dianne Wyntjes voted in favour of the proposal. Buck Buchanan was absent.