A controversial lot split in Winnipeg's Tuxedo neighbourhood is not moving forward, following opposition from some well-known homeowners.
"It's tough on a neighbourhood, I'm glad it's over," said David Asper.
The city's board of adjustment approved the subdivision of the lot at Handsart Boulevard and Nanton Boulevard in April.
Area residents, including David Asper, True North’s Jim Ludlow, and lawyer Ken Zaifman opposed the spilt and appealed to city hall. They argued the city did not follow proper bylaws and policies, that this could set an unwanted precedent and does not fit in with the rest of the street.
"The proposed land use is clearly demonstrably and obviously inconsistent with the character of the neighbourhood," said Asper.
"Are we being reasonable in opposing this variance?” asked Zaifman. “I think that we're being imminently reasonable."
In the end, their appeal was upheld in a 2-1 vote preventing the subdivision.
Councillors Jason Schreyer and Markus Chambers were the two who voted in favour of the appeal.
"By splitting, this would set the precedent that the corner lots could be subdivided and made smaller and disturb the natural characteristics of the rest of the neighbourhood," said Chambers.
Councillor Cindy Gilroy was the lone vote supporting the lot split.
"’Cause I believe that we need more density in the community,” said Gilroy. “I believe that that's, you know, fair and reasonable."
The Glenwood Neighbourhood Association followed the Tuxedo appeal. Based on the decision, it feels there's a double standard at city hall.
GNA chair Pam St. Godard says similar appeals made by her group against lot splits using the same arguments fall short.
“So what’s the difference, is it postal code?” said St. Godard.
David Asper has a message for Glenwood residents and others.
"What I would say to people in other parts of the city is to keep up the fight and keep going," said Asper.
