A controversial proposal to build float homes in Deas Slough has gone through civic hoops, but it still has to clear a few more hurdles.
Delta council has granted conditional approval to the rezoning application by Kyan Management Corporation and Grove Crest Stables. The subdivision in the 6300-block of River Road would see 11 single-family homes constructed on upland lots as well as 11 float homes on proposed water lots in the slough.
The vote followed a public hearing a couple of weeks ago where the majority of speakers, mostly recreational users of the slough, voiced opposition.
Those who voiced opposition complained that allowing foreshore water lots would give the new homeowners rights over a public waterway and block some activities from taking place. At the hearing, most expressed concerns about the safety of narrowing the area for rowing, kayaking and other water pursuits.
Deciding the float homes would not impede recreational activities, council gave the proposal conditional approval, but final approval won't be given until a number of external approvals are granted. In particular, the applicant still has to apply to Port Metro Vancouver to obtain water lot leases.
Deputy planning director Marcy Sangret told the Optimist an additional resolution by council was for the applicant to apply for water lots necessary to accommodate a float home. That application has been made, so it's now in the hands of the port.
There are currently no float homes on Deas Slough.
As far as float homes being allowed in areas beyond where they are permitted, that's an issue where council has already asked for clarification.
Earlier this summer, Port Metro Vancouver asked for comment on its new land use plan. Council used that opportunity to ask the port to specify the areas where float homes would be permitted and whether there are restrictions on the number or form of float home development.
"It is currently uncertain whether all of the areas designated in Delta's Future Land Use Plan would be allowed to have float homes. It is also unclear whether the number permissible based on Delta's density calculations would be acceptable to Port Metro Vancouver," stated a staff report.
According to the port, it does not have water lot leases for the proposed Deas Slough development, and, at least as far back as the port's records indicate, never has had any leases for the area.
