Residents worry subdivision would worsen busy corner

Some Stayner residents are concerned that a proposed new subdivision in the east end of town will only exacerbate existing traffic problems at the corner of Highway 26 and Centre Line Road.

There was a full house for the public meeting at town hall March 19 when plans for the Manortown subdivision (also known as Sidell Estates), an 81-unit development including 42 townhouses and 37 single detached houses, were presented by Darren Vella, of Innovative Planning Solutions.

The proposed development is across the street from the draft plan approved 994-unit Estates of Clearview subdivision.

About 16 people spoke at the public meeting, voicing concerns about drainage and landscaping and although very few opposed the development outright, almost everyone who came to the microphone was concerned with traffic.

All traffic would access the new development off Sunnidale Street. Because the subdivision borders Highway 26 and the ministry limits access to provincial highways, all traffic would be fed through to Centre Line Road. This caused concern for people who say they already struggle to navigate the very busy intersection.

“I don’t want to oppose this, it’s good for the town but something needs to be done at 26 and Centre Line,” said Jake Weel.

Sunnidale Street resident Alinda Bishop was amongst those concerned about the lack of sidewalks, especially when doubling the number of houses that exit onto Sunnidale would double the traffic.

“There are going to be more accidents,” she said. “Getting off Centre Line is terrible.”

Vella said in working with township staff, the development was designed with a “window road”, meaning that the front of the houses will face the highway, improving the gateway aesthetic for people driving into town.

Council is to consider the comments when making decisions about the development.