Plans unveiled to transform vacant commercial space into apartments

In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the redevelopment of a vacant commercial property known as the Fishbowl, located in the Milford Oval. The De Montney family, who owns the property, is seeking to rehabilitate and update the building while maintaining its commercial presence.

The proposal includes retaining a storefront unit to preserve the commercial character of the Oval, but the family has recognized that the existing layout, which features a deep commercial space, is not viable based on market analysis. Instead, they plan to reconfigure the internal layout to maintain a commercial unit on the first floor while introducing four new studio apartments to complement existing one-bedroom units.

Notably, the redevelopment will not increase the building's square footage; rather, a portion of the structure will be removed to create outdoor deck space for the new apartments. This change aims to enhance accessibility and improve the overall aesthetic of the area, which has been described as congested due to parking issues.

The meeting also highlighted the unique zoning challenges faced by properties in the Milford Oval, as existing regulations do not adequately address the mixed-use nature of the area. The board acknowledged the need for clearer guidelines to accommodate such developments, which are essential for the community's growth and revitalization.

Overall, the proposed changes reflect a commitment to improving the functionality and appeal of the Milford Oval while addressing the complexities of local zoning laws.