Ladysmith residents to have their say about coach houses

While coach houses are already permitted in and around downtown Ladysmith, the Town is consulting with residents about expanding the area to allow coach houses in neighborhoods zoned Single Dwelling Residential (R-1). A coach house - also known as carriage house or garden suite - is a detached small home usually built in the rear yard of a single-family residential lot.

"If you live in a single family dwelling in Ladysmith, outside of the downtown area, there is a good chance your property is zoned R-1," said Ladysmith Mayor Aaron Stone. "Affordable housing is a hot topic and we want to engage with residents and get feedback on the coach house issue. How do you feel about coach houses? Would you like one on your property? Should your neighbours have a coach house? What conditions if any should be placed on them?  That kind of input helps to shape the decision-making process."

On March 1 from 5:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m., interested residents are invited to ask questions and provide feedback to Town staff about coach houses at a community open house at the Frank Jameson Community Centre (FJCC) - Lower Program Room. Those who cannot attend are invited to fill out a survey, available at City Hall or by emailing info@ladysmith.ca

Residents who wish to participate online can visit www.placespeak.com/coachhouseconsultation2018. Those who have not yet used PlaceSpeak will be prompted to create a free account. PlaceSpeak is a secure, pioneering location-based citizen engagement platform that solves the problem of how to consult with people online within specific geographical boundaries. The tool was launched in the Cowichan Valley, including Ladysmith, in January 2017.