IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: This article was originally published by ThoroldToday on March 2.
Construction on the Rolling Meadows subdivision in Thorold South is still ongoing, and now the developer is looking to bring commercial businesses to the neighbourhood.
The matter was discussed during a public meeting in front of city council on Tuesday evening, but only Mayor Terry Ugulini, and Councilllors Henry D’Angela en Tim O’Hare were in attendance.
William Heikoop, who is a planner for Upper Canada Consultants, gave a development update on behalf of the landowners.
“As a response to the public comments regarding the removal of commercial use from the Village Square on the last application, the owners have proposed to introduce commercial spaces in the Village Square,” Heikoop said.
Both councillors shared their enthusiasm for the commercial development.
“I’ve been through Rolling Meadows and it’s quite shocking to me that there was absolutely nothing there,” said Councillor O’Hare. “My question is what you are considering for that commercial space.”
Heikoop answered that 18 tot 22 smaller retail stores would be able to move in after construction is complete.
“It’s intended that this Village Square commercial area be more dedicated to the surrounding neighbours and service their day-to-day needs,” he said.
Councillors urged Heikoop to get moving on the project as quickly as possible.
“I think it’s important that that gets build sooner rather than later,” said Councillor D’Angela. “A good example is Confederation Heights. There are commercial lands that have been sitting there vacant. You want to provide the amenities for the people who are living in that area so they’re not always using their vehicles.”
Heikoop also shared that there are two blocks set aside in the subdivision for schools, but the local school boards haven’t expressed any interest in them.
Thorold residents who want to shop local will have to wait a little while longer as there is no precise timeline for the project.