A controversial apartment building planned for Wilkinson Street and Springfield Road is going ahead.

City council approved a development permit for the four-storey, 107-unit rental-only project at its Aug.12 meeting.

Councillor Luke Stack noted the controversy in supporting the project.

鈥淓ssentially the developer could go up to six storeys but he has chosen to remain at four which blends into the neighbourhood nicely,鈥� Stack added.

It was during a 7.5-hour public hearing on the development in June 2023 that area residents aired concerns over the size of the building, density, pedestrian safety and increased traffic.

Coun. Maxine DeHart pointed out the developer worked with the neighbourhood on its concerns.

鈥淲e know your neighbourhood is going to change, but if you work with the developer, staff and rest of us, something good can come out of it and I think that鈥檚 exactly what happened.鈥� 

Coun. Mohini Singh noted the building is a welcome addition to the city鈥檚 rental pool.

鈥淲ith due respect to the concerns raised by the residents, change is always difficult. But I think this is one change worth embracing.

It will give many people a home," Singh added.