The City of Delta says it’s taking action to reinstall a sidewalk ripped out but not replaced due to a stalled residential development in Beach Grove.
Last year the city granted approval for a subdivision at 5701- and 5711-16th Avenue, owned by Kulwant and Rauni Malhi.
Work had begun to redevelop the site, but in the last few months nothing appears to have taken place, including a sidewalk replacement.
Area residents described the property as a mess.
City manager Sean McGill said nothing has taken place since May and the city has had a difficult time getting in contact with the owners.
The biggest problem is the lack of a sidewalk and due to the safety concerns, which has prompted resident complaints as well, the city is taking action, McGill said.
The city has the ability to take action due to the requirement for public roads or sidewalks by developers, he added, saying it’s not very often it has to resort to such measures.
A city news release stated that mayor and council resolved to take steps to coordinate the completion of municipal roads and services for the development site.
“The City of Delta has put forward a plan to resolve this issue by using funds from the security deposit provided by the developer to complete the required works. Of particular concern is the removed portion of the sidewalk that was to be replaced by the developer. This portion of the sidewalk has been a cause of concern for the community and will be reinstated as soon as possible,” the news release states.
