The District of Invermere has approved a development permit for a three-storey rental apartment complex.
The proposal, put forward by Metis Nation BC Housing, is slated to be constructed at 1102 13th Street.
Acting Mayor and council member Kayja Becker says the project is a revised version of a previous proposal.
“They were originally looking at a four-storey building, which was a big shock to the current single-family home neighbourhood. They did a lot of public consultation, and from the feedback they heard, people weren’t comfortable with four stories,” said Becker.
“They came back with a three-storey design that we feel is a much better fit for the neighbourhood.”
The building is anticipated to have 41 rental apartments with a mix of one, two and three-bedroom units.
Becker says more housing density is much needed in Invermere.
“We recognize that we need more affordable and rental housing and yet this is still a small community, so change is hard on some people,” said Becker.
“We’re trying to get that balance between what makes sense for the community and what density is going to be the most effective without disrupting the town and throwing up high-rises.”
The planned development is located between Invermere’s downtown area and JA Laird Elementary School.
“This is being smart with our density. It’s easy to say that we should keep expanding and sprawling out so we don’t need to worry about change, but that’s really ineffective for utilities and getting people around,” said Becker.
“Most developments are within walking distance in our community, so I think this will be a good addition.”
The development permit was approved by District Council members, which sets the parameters of the proposal on the subject property.
The Metis Nation will seek out a funding source for the development before coming back to council chambers for a building permit.
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