Manufactured homes project moves forward

The Town of Penhold is preparing for a new proposed manufactured homes park development in its newest community of Oxford Landing.

It is an area that could provide its citizens a more affordable housing option.

During a recent council meeting on Jan. 25, Kristina Schmidt, the town's planning and development officer, made a presentation about zoning changes to amend the Land Use Bylaw within the manufactured home residential district (R5).

The purpose of the amendment is to accommodate higher density development in the R5 district.

“The town's planning and development department received an application from Stantec Consulting on behalf of Melcor Development (Ltd.),” said Schmidt. “The ultimate goal of the Land Use Bylaw amendment would be to increase the maximum gross density of manufactured homes within the multiple site park, from 15 homes per hectare to 18.8 homes per hectare,” she added, noting that Melcor Developments Ltd. has about 9.95 hectares of land that has been subdivided and rezoned for the development.

“Once administrative approvals have been arranged, construction won't begin until the beginning of the spring and the initial stages of the manufactured home park will be ready for this fall,” added Schmidt.

Although there is no set price range for the manufactured homes as of yet, last month Rick Binnendyk, the town's chief administrative officer, told the Innisfail Province he believes the manufactured homes could retail for around $150,000.

According to Tyler Hansen, development manager for Melcor Developments Ltd., the initial phase of development of the family-oriented (manufactured home park) community is expected to occur in 2016.

“A number of amenities and features will be part of this site, including parks and green spaces and premium vinyl fencing,” he said. “The manufactured home park is planned on a 24-acre site surrounded by parks, trails and the community lake. Melcor will own and professionally manage the manufactured home park in Oxford Landing.”

First reading on the Land Use Bylaw amendment was passed by council and the process will now go to a public hearing on Feb. 22 at 5:45 p.m. in the council chambers.

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