Changes proposed to former Nicolet, Redneck's Saloon

A Markham, Ont. development company is proposing to add seven new apartments to the ground floor of an illustrious former Sault Ste. Marie watering hole.

Isnize Living Development Ltd. is owner of the old Nicolet Tavern, Redneck's Saloon building at 304 Albert St. West.

Sault Ste. Marie doesn't allow dwelling units on the ground floor of legally existing buildings, so Isnize Living asked the city's committee of adjustment this week for a minor variance allowing it to squeeze in the new apartments.

The city's planning staff suggested the request be granted.

"The proposed property is in a predominately residential neighbourhood and consists of a second floor with multiple units as of right," said a planning report.

"The addition of dwelling units supports the city's goal towards increasing the housing supply."

Staff recommended two conditions be placed on the approval:

• to ensure proper design within the existing neighbourhood, they recommended approval be subject to site plan control
• to satisfy the intention of the official plan and zoning bylaw, renderings of the building should be submitted and subject to approval of the planning department

"This land is designated residential in the official plan and is supported should the ground floor be designed with esthetics that are sympathetic to the surrounding area," the report said.

"Similarly, with proper design on the main floor in particular, the intention of the zoning bylaw would be upheld by ensuring that commercial spaces are properly renovated to suit a residential purpose."

The request for seven new apartments was deferred to a future meeting after a neighbour asked for more time to get information about the number of people living on the second and third floors.

Isnize Living Development Ltd. is controlled by Suping Zou of Markham.