A public information meeting regarding plans for the former site of the Rosemary Heights Retreat Centre in South Surrey is set for tonight (Wednesday) at Morgan Creek Golf Course.
The 5-7:30 p.m. meeting is regarding a development proposed for the site – 3690 and 3660 152 St., on the bluff above the Nicomekl River.
According to a City of Surrey notice that was distributed to residents, 278 townhouses and 23 single-family homes are eyed for the 28-acre parcel, which is currently zoned for institutional use.
The retreat centre, owned by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver, was closed in December 2016.
In addition to rezoning, requests by proponent Porte Communities include amendments to the Rosemary Heights Central NCP; a hazard lands development permit; and a sensitive ecosystems development permit.
At a public meeting held last June – when Porte was proposing to put more than 300 townhouse and 30 single-family homes on the site – reaction to the plan was mixed.
Residents encouraging attendance at this week’s meeting name increased traffic, overcrowded schools and a “tremendous” loss of environment as among key concerns.
“Having these developments go through will alter the desirable neighbourhood we currently live in forever,” states an email from the Save Rosemary Heights group that was shared with Peace Arch News.
Porte president David Porte has told PAN he is “well aware” of residents’ concern with regard to what’s in store for the site, and that a large area will be dedicated for biodiversity.
The golf course is located at 3500 Morgan Creek Way.