It has come to light that Rob Steele of Steele Auto Group is in the midst of purchasing several properties around the Colonial Honda site near the intersection of Robie and North streets in Peninsula North. These properties include several residential homes.

Steele has recently confirmed that the group plans to demolish these properties for the purpose of expanding the car lot over a very wide footprint.

This is unacceptable.

Under current planning rules, there is nothing to prevent the demolition of this primarily-residential neighbourhood, and its replacement with a car lot. But just because it technically can be done does not mean it should be done. Far from it.

The loss of character of the properties that are going to be demolished, and the removal of residential density in the area as a result, are bad enough. Even more than that, however, this move is utterly at odds with our community's urban planning philosophies and will damage the overall character of the neighbourhood. It must be stopped.

There has been no progress in working with Steele on this matter. The time has come for public pressure.

We are asking Steele Auto Group to reconsider the destruction of this residential neighbourhood.