Delayed Derby development decision ultimately gets approved
August 11, 2026 at 10:41 AM
Despite ongoing concerns from neighbours and a development that goes against the recently approved secondary plan for the area, Fort Erie councillors have approved a 30-unit apartment for Derby Road.
The application, which was deferred during the July 20 meeting, was back up for discussion on Monday, August 10. It’ll see developer Steve Bremner build the three-storey apartment at 19 Derby Road that will include a mix of styles, including two one-bedroom units, 23 two-bedroom units, and five three-bedroom units.
While councillors have shown support for the project, and noted ongoing efforts by Bremner to alter the plan to allay neighbours’ fears, they also pointed out the Crystal Beach Secondary Plan was approved less than three years ago and doesn’t support the type of development Bremner has in mind.
However, a combination of a few factors convinced council to greenlight the project. Among those factors is the town’s desperate search for rental units and more specifically, affordable units.
“I know that the neighbours aren’t necessarily happy about having a three-storey building in their neighbourhood,” acknowledged Mayor Wayne Redekop.
“What we definitely need is apartment units, and rental apartment units. And we’ve had some tire kicking from some other developers. We’ve had some discussions about maybe utilizing our affordable housing CIP (community improvement plan). But we haven’t had someone who’s come forward who’s had local experience building these types of units and managing them.”
Bremner has indicated he plans to not only build the development, but manage it. He’s also looking at including affordable units on the property.
The affordable aspect, along with Bremner’s local experience and reputation, did a lot of the heavy lifting convincing councillors to support it. Councillor Ann-Marie Noyes also said a plan such as Bremner’s wasn’t even a consideration when they passed the secondary plan, giving her comfort in supporting the application.
She additionally pointed out Bremner’s flexibility, something other councillors acknowledged as well.
“I’m pleased with how much he’s changed things based on council’s comments,” she said.
Counillor Tom Lewis remained opposed. While he said he understands the need for rentals and affordable units, he reiterated his previous stance regarding residents’ opposition and the recently approved secondary plan.
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About The Author
Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is a longtime Niagara community journalist who has covered a variety of beats, including business, agriculture, the wine industry and politics. When not writing, there's a good chance he can be found at a baseball diamond or curling rink.
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