The city’s Planning Advisory Committee approved two variances Tuesday for the proposed project, located between the lot containing Sobeys/NB Liquor and Fashion Drive.

Orion Management and Construction Inc., on behalf of East Point Holdings Inc., was previously granted permission to build three multi-storey buildings on the Retail Drive site.

The buildings would have dwelling units on the upper floors with commercial uses anticipated on the ground floors.

PAC members voted unanimously to increase the building heights from 24 metres to between 28 and 57 metres. The two buildings in front would be eight storeys in height while the third building adjacent to an existing rock wall would be 14 storeys.

Staff noted that the increased height will have a “limited impact” on adjacent areas as the lands immediately next to it has limited development, including an electrical substation, communications tower, and electrical transmission corridor.

Committee members also approved a variance allowing for dwelling units on the ground floor of the three buildings.

John Wheatley, who spoke on behalf of the proponent, said their primary intention is to have boutique retailers fill the space.

“But in the event that that doesn’t happen, we will design the first floor in such a way that we could use those spaces for residential if we need to in order to make sure the building is filled up,” Wheatley told the committee.

Keep reading on Huddle.Today