Thumb’s down to accessory building

SUMMERLAND — Lack of a convincing reason and objections from neighbours led Summerland council to deny a development variance permit for the construction of a two storey accessory building.

The property located at 10205 Giant’s Head Road is zoned country residential which has a maximum accessory building height of 4.5 m, one storey.

Property owners Dave Kiwaluk and Joan Skidmore requested permission to build a two storey garage with a building height of 7.25 m.

The structure would have two bays to house classic cars and, as described by Kiwaluk, a ‘man cave’ on the second level.

Staff recommended approval of the request saying the proposed building would fit with the form and character of the existing residential development.

Several nearby neighbours had other opinions as expressed in their letters to council and as they stated at Tuesday’s meeting.

Their objections focussed on loss of privacy, blockage of view and prevention of sunlight reaching gardens.

Potential future use of the second storey was also questioned.

“What does ‘man cave with plumbing’ really mean?” asked Mary Lou Dunn.

“I don’t see any particular reason for the variance other than the whim of the homeowner,” said Coun. Richard Barkwill.

“What is the need? It’s not because of topology. Also with the neighbours’ concerns, I can’t support this,” Mayor Peter Waterman said.