“We won’t be just passive spectators on this file” – Mr. Otis

Worries regarding 22, rue Principale

Since the unveiling of details regarding 22, rue Principale, various Old-Aylmer stakeholders have started to mobilize.

“We are asking for a transparent debate on this project. We want this debate to be constructive and for it to support property development that is respectful of the heritage identity of the sector. Therefore, we are asking that, in accordance with the Community Planning Act, a special public consultation be held about this project,” says Ghislain Otis, spokesperson for a group of stakeholders of the Old-Aylmer Heritage Square and an Ottawa University Law Faculty professor.

Article 145.18 of the Land Use Planning and Development Act, stipulates that “council can decree that plans produced be submitted to consultation…”

In the Bulletin d’Aylmer’s June 15 edition, developer Denis Cléroux offered his plans for 22, rue Principale: a four- storey building, 15 to 18 condo units and possibility of commercial spaces on the ground floor. Actual plans are not yet public but the developer will be submitting them to the urban planning committee (CCU) soon. Mr. Cléroux also mentioned that a meeting with residents would be organized by former Aylmer councillor Stefan Psenak.

“The scope of the project is very worrying for us. We feel that if the details are confirmed, this would destroy the heritage architecture of rue Principale,” indicates Mr Otis. The Aylmer Heritage Association (AHA) and the Musée de l’auberge Symmes also support the stakeholders’ group.

Historian Roger Blanchette, a member of the museum’s board of directors, adds that 22, rue Principale is located within 152 metres of a protected area that includes the museum, which is an officially recognized heritage building.

“Mistakes have been made in the past on rue Principale; we don’t want another one,” commented Micheline Lemieux, AHA President. “There is great potential there for an excellent project. A beautiful building enhancing the exceptional heritage character of the square is more than welcome! But we are not sure that this project, as presented, would blend well and respect the heritage criteria.”

Otis argues that even if a building respects the zoning technical requirements, it is not enough; it must also respect the established standards for architectural integration. “Municipal council, under CCU advice, has the authority to require that the developer downsize his project even if it is in conformity with the zoning regulations,” explains Mr Otis. “If we want to build a condo tower, have it erected on the outskirts boulevards. It will blend in very well. A condo tower on rue Principale is an insult to its heritage and the collective efforts put forth to embellish the square.”