75-acre Anmore hillside development moves forward despite possible geotechnical risks

While there are still some concerns about erosion and washouts, Anmore recently took a step toward approving the village’s first townhouse development.

In a unanimous vote Tuesday, village council gave first reading to a proposal that – if ultimately approved – would put 269 homes on 75 acres in Anmore.

While the project looks “very good for the developer,” and might be good for taxation, it also seems “really, really dense,” said Coun. Doug Richardson.

The development would consist of 51 single-family homes, 46 semi-detached homes, and a combination of 172 townhomes – totalling approximately 3.6 units per acre.

The project will change the look and feel of Anmore, according to Richardson.

“It’s just too much building,” he said.

Richardson voiced concern about the fire risk as well as stormwater management related to the project.

Geotechnical engineers concluded the most significant risks are related to: “erosion and surface washouts due to site disturbance.” That disturbance might cause debris to flow down the slope. However, a stormwater management plan as well as sediment control measures could address those risks, according to a village staff report.

Staff advised Anmore put a covenant on title to: “mitigate steep slope hazards” and ensure geotechnical recommendations are followed.

There is also a low risk of groundwater causing the ground to sink or become less stable, according to the staff report.

The project would involve an extension of water mains and roads from North Charlotte Road and Ridge Mountain Drive. A pump station currently provides water for seven single-family lots in the area.

Coun. Paul Weverink voiced concern about the project’s financial sustainability, given potential infrastructure costs.

“This was always our concern about these hillside developments that they’re putting us further and further in the hole,” he said.

While it’s too early for an in-depth answer, the project seems financially sustainable due to the number of houses to tax, according to Anmore planner Josh Joseph.

Mayor John McEwen said he supported further analysis to see how the proposal evolves. However, he reminded his colleagues the property is also ready under private ownership.

“This land will get developed at some point in time. It just comes down to economics,” he said.

The land is owned by : MNP Ltd., Anmore Gate Limited Partnership and Bella Terra Investments 2 Inc.

A detailed design analysis including soil stability and groundwater impacts from septic systems should be undertaken before council approves the project, staff recommended.

Approximately 34 percent of the site would be a mix of parks and pathways connecting to Anmore trails.

Lot coverage would range from 45 percent for single-family homes to 60 percent for townhouses.

Following public engagement, the project would require two more votes from council before construction could begin.