Things are changing for a section of waterfront property in Sidney.
While some are sad to see the change, others are excited as more homes are being planned for the property.
Earlier this month, the iconic Cedarwood Inn and Suites, located on Lochside Drive, closed for good after nearly half a century in business.
The signs have been removed and the parking lot is empty as the new owners prepare to redevelop the land which will include apartments, townhouses and commercial spaces.
The iconic hotel situated along the waterfront was acquired by GMC Projects in 2020, and since then, there have been ongoing plans to develop the property into more homes for the community.
Located at the corner of Lochside Drive and Weiler Avenue, this project introduces a three-storey condominium building accommodating 49 units, complemented by a café or eatery overlooking the intersection.
“We are hopeful to secure a cafe type tenant in line with what we have created at our Portage West property with Iluka Espresso,” said Jordan Milne, president of GMC Projects, the developer who proposed the building.
Related: Sidney’s Cedarwood Inn closes after nearly 50 years to make way for housing
The condominiums will offer a range of one-bedroom to three-bedroom plus-den layouts, catering to various preferences and needs.
Adjacent to the condominiums, along Weiler Avenue, will see a collection of 48 two-and-a-half-storey townhomes. These residences, featuring two to three bedrooms, are tailored for families and will feature ocean views.
Along with the development, there are several enhancements to public amenities in the plans which include an expanded sidewalk, approximately twice the width of the current one, will be installed along Weiler Avenue.
According to GMC Projects, the expanded sidewalk will feature new benches and landscaping.
“This will create a beautified, safer and more enjoyable experience for pedestrians,” said Milne.
Traffic calming measures, such as road narrowing at certain parts of Weiler Avenue, are also being considered, though the final plan is still being reviewed by Sidney.
Additionally, new protected cycling infrastructure and further seating and socialization spaces will be added at the corner of Weiler and Lochside.
The project will contribute $108,987 to community amenities and an additional $167,810 towards future park acquisitions.
Demolition plans for the current structure are scheduled to begin in 2025. In the meantime, the existing units will continue to be available for rent, providing accommodations during the interim period.
According to Milne, a building relocation company has been working with local First Nations to move some of existing buildings to provide on-reserve housing instead of demolishing them and adding to landfills.
What do you think of the plans? Let us know in the comment section below!
