Modifying an already-approved site plan from 2024 a ‘key factor’ in unlocking government funding needed to make Fairfield Road community a reality
A proposed non-profit housing development in Sackville was back before Tantramar council on March 10, where councillors approved changes developers say are needed to move the project forward.
The Freshwinds Eco-Village Housing Cooperative is planned for 64 Fairfield Road. The project was first introduced in 2023, and council approved rezoning in 2024 to allow higher-density residential use on the site.
Developers asked council to approve a variation to those rezoning conditions, tied to an updated site plan.
Sam Gerrand from Plan 360 presented the application during a public hearing on March 10.
“So there is some history to this property. It was rezoned in 2024 by council from R1 to R3 to allow a higher density residential use.”
Developers say design update is tied to funding requirements
The updated proposal includes an additional multi-unit building and changes to the housing mix. The total number of units would increase from 62 to 68.
“The main changes are that an additional multi-unit building has been added to the property… and there’s been a shift in some of the housing mix on the property.”
Gerrand said those changes require formal approval from council.
“The changes were significant enough that it required an amendment to the resolution of that rezoning agreement. That’s why the application is back before council to review and ultimately approve those changes.”
Sabina Dietz is co-chair of the Freshwinds Eco-Village Housing Cooperative. Dietz told council the requested change is small, but necessary, to move the project forward.
“So this variance application is just a very small change for us, which we needed to make in order to submit an application for federal funding; but it is essential, to make sure that the project is viable in the long term.”
Dietz said the project has taken years of work to reach this stage.
“And yes, it was blood and sweat for three years.”
The development is structured as a housing co-operative, meaning it is designed to operate without generating profit.
“This is a cooperative development and a non-profit development, and there is no for-profit, no profit going to any individual.”
Supporters highlight need for affordable housing in region
Supporters at the public hearing pointed to the need for more affordable housing in the region.
One resident speaking at the hearing said the project could bring a significant number of new affordable units to the area.
“Freshwinds is the only non-profit housing project underway in our region, and will offer the biggest influx of truly affordable units for local residents in several decades.”
Bill Barrows is chair of the Marsh Winds Housing Cooperative, Sackville’s existing co-op housing development. Barrows told council the model has already proven successful locally.
“I just really want to say, I can’t think of any reason why you should not have a second cooperative. It is sustainable. It’s not for everyone but it is for a lot of people.”
Councillors raise questions about infrastructure and planning
Council members also raised questions during the hearing.
Councillor Bruce Phinney voiced support for the project.
“So I’m in support of this because it’s something we dearly need. There’s no doubt about that.”
Councillor Barry Hicks raised concerns about infrastructure, specifically the private road planned for the development.
“The only thing I don’t agree with is it doesn’t have a street into it, up to municipal standards and not turned over to the municipality after to maintain and everything.”
Neighbour concerns focus on fencing and site impacts
Some nearby residents also raised concerns about how the development could affect neighbouring properties.
Charlie Harvey lives on Fairfield Road and asked council to ensure a fence is included along the property line.
“I sent a letter around asking for a fence to be installed. I understand that there will be a fence installed. What kind of fence?”
Developers say they are willing to work with neighbours, and the updated site plan includes a fence along part of the property.
Council approved the proposed changes during the March 10 meeting, allowing the updated Freshwinds plan to move forward.
*Editor’s note: This article has been updated to reflect that Tantramar council approved the Freshwinds project variance during its March 10 meeting. An earlier version suggested the decision was pending.
Clinton Davis is a community journalist and audio producer covering the people, events, and ideas shaping the Tantramar region.
