A public hearing regarding a development proposed to replace Ocean Park Mall is set for Monday (April 8) at 7 p.m.
To be held electronically, the meeting is opportunity to comment on bylaw and zoning amendments sought to enable construction of new commercial space topped by 60 residential units.
According to a City of Surrey planning report, the existing one-level plaza – in the 1600-block of 128 Street – is currently home to approximately 15 commercial units.
If approved, a large grocery store will anchor the ground floor on the north end – along with three smaller commercial units on the south – and 60 one- to three-bedroom homes would be built in three storeys above, with a gym and lounge/party room on the second floor. Residential parking would all be underground; an additional 20 at-grade parking spaces are proposed.
The plan was conditionally supported by the city’s advisory design panel last October, the report notes.
Commercial tenants were advised in December 2020 of the property’s sale to Cressey Development Group. At that time, there was no development application on file for the property with the City of Surrey.
READ MORE: South Surrey business owners feeling ‘abandoned’ following mall’s sale
The current proposal – most recently in front on council at the March 11 land-use meeting – requires an Official Community Plan amendment to proceed, as the proposed floor area ratio of 1.7 exceeds the maximum 1.5 FAR that’s allowed in the site’s commercial designation.
According to the planning report, the FAR increase is due to required lane and walkway dedications.
Rezoning and a development permit are also sought.
A public meeting on the proposal was held in September. Of 24 comments received at that time, 13 indicated support and seven were opposed. Concerns noted included traffic increase, construction disturbance and increased density.
If approved, occupancy is expected by spring of 2026, the report notes.
For information on watching and/or participating in the April 8 hearing, visit surrey.ca. Anyone wishing to speak
Written submissions must be received by noon April 8.