The Ontario Municipal Board has approved a settlement that could clear the way for development of the Sifton lands in the area of Modeland Rd. and Michigan Ave. The city, county and London-based Sifton Properties agreed to significant changes to the initial project that was rejected by Sarnia council in May 2015. The size of the medium density and commercial areas has been reduced, high density uses including retirement homes and apartment dwellings have been eliminated and the number of single detached lots increased from 64 to 75. As well, access points onto Modeland Rd. are being reduced from three to a single right-in, right-out access. A future OMB hearing is still needed to consider Plan of Subdivision approval for the 26-acre site which will address issues like storm water management before any development proceeds.
Area resident Debbie Krukowski has expressed concern that the capacity of the storm water system may not be able to handle the development.
