An important but preliminary step has been taken to allow a significant housing development on a former industrial site in east end Belleville.
Monday, city council approved several zoning changes that could lead to a mixed housing development where the Bakelite plant stood.
Councillor Chris Malette said he and others on council had heard from several people that wanted the land left vacant, worried the development would harm the bayshore, pond and marsh.
Malette said the the land was privately owned and the city couldn’t control everything about its use.
“Owners have at least made the effort to dedicate a good percentage, almost 60% of that property, will not be touched. All of the bayshore lands will be for walking trails and there are naturalized areas.”
The developers will have to meet several requirements regarding the natural environment before any construction could proceed.
