5646 and 5650 Manotick Main Proposed Development
A commercial development has been proposed for 5646 and 5650 Manotick Main. Residents may know the site as being where the “Car Wash, Discount Tobacco, and Grocery Shop” are located. The developer, Hawkins Properties, has retained Fotenn to support its submission. The proponent is proposing the addition of a drive-thru Starbucks and an expanded carwash for the site.
Key Facts
- At present, the site contains 2 low-rise commercial buildings, one of which is a car wash; the buildings are proposed to be demolished and replaced with 2 single-storey commercial buildings.
- One of the buildings is proposed to be a Starbucks with a drive thru; the other is proposed to be a new car wash.
- There are 23 surface parking spaces proposed for the site, divided between two areas
- The proposed development appears to be in line with the Manotick Secondary Plan, which guides municipal policy in Manotick including with respect to new developments.
- The site will be serviced by municipal water and a septic system for wastewater. The existing septic tank on site will be removed and replaced with a new septic system to manage wastewater flows for both properties. The septic system will be coordinated with the Ottawa Septic System Office, which is run out of the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority and which ensures compliance with provincial regulations.
- There are several reports available online that were submitted to City staff covering a wide range of topics related to the proposed development, including environmental assessments
Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment
To accommodate the proposed development, the proponent is requesting a Zoning By-law Amendment. Details regarding the submission can be found here, and supporting documentation is available on DevApps.
- The site is zoned for commercial activity as Rural Commercial Subzone 1, Exception 152r (RC1[152r]). That exception prohibits a restaurant or bar on the site.
- The developer is pursuing a zoning by-law amendment to remove that exception and allow for the addition of the proposed Starbucks.
- The site is otherwise by-law compliant; no other Zoning By-law Amendments are proposed.
Councillor’s View
I have heard some feedback from residents regarding this development. Concerns include noise, site safety, impacts on existing businesses, traffic impacts and water management on the site.
Many of these concerns require careful consideration. I am particularly concerned about traffic issues; the planning rationale and supporting documentation from the proponent suggest that a left-turn lane for northbound traffic is warranted, and I would like to see to it that this is added as a condition of the development. Additionally, I would like to ensure that tree coverage and fencing are either maintained or added to provide for greater privacy and security, particularly for residents on Mahogany Harbour Lane.
Though the development comes with challenges that merit debate and consideration, it is important to note that all of the concerns with the development are predicated on the fact that there is demand for this development. Increased traffic, noise, and usage of the property are all byproducts of the fact that there is demand in the community to patronize the proposed businesses, and that demand is arguably growing as the village welcomes more neighbours. Additionally, the introduction of new businesses provides employment opportunities, especially for young people in the community. While the potential negatives should be carefully weighed, I do believe that we cannot forget that development, when done responsibly, can improve our community.
At this time, my team and I are making our way through hundreds of pages of material across 21 reports and supporting documents. I will be reserving judgement as to my opinion on the project until such time as I am able to fully review the material, hear from the community, and discuss the matters with City staff and the development proponent.
I believe that a balance can be struck, one that manages the potential downsides while capitalizing on the benefits offered by the development. So long as that balance is achieved, I will be supportive of this development, but I will reserve judgement until residents can have their say and I am able to work through all of the information supporting the development proposal.
I will be hosting a community information session on July 31st at 6:30 pm to give an opportunity for residents to share their views on the matter, which I can raise with the project proponent and City staff. More details regarding the information session are available below.
Getting in Touch
Now that the development is officially posted, there is a 90-day window for the City to make a decision on the proposed development. This is the result of recently passed provincial legislation designed to encourage development. Residents are encouraged to provide their feedback about the proposed development directly to City Staff by using this form.
Residents with additional thoughts and feedback are always welcome to email my office at ward21@ottawa.ca, and we will ensure to share that feedback with the project proponent and City staff.
Information session
A public, in-person information session about the proposed development at 5646 and 5650 Manotick Main is scheduled for July 31st with doors opening at 6:30 pm. The event will be held at the Manotick Arena.
Though registration is not strictly necessary, it is encouraged so that my office can get a sense as to the number of participants attending and can plan accordingly. Please email ward21@ottawa.ca to let my office know that you plan on attending.
