Family Christian Centre. Image via Google Maps
FORT McMURRAY — The Family Christian Centre in Dickinsfield is once again seeking approval to expand its property, proposing a new gymnasium and additional parking at its 160 Dickins Dr. location.
According to a Notice of Change dated Feb. 6 from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, the church has applied to amend Land Use Bylaw No. 2600 to revise regulations limiting off site parking for the site, legally described as Lot 105, Block 84, Plan 8022549.
Municipal planning documents state the proposed amendment would increase the allowable off site parking from 20 per cent to 80 per cent of required stalls through parking agreements with nearby properties, including École Dickinsfield School, Sister Mary Phillips School, 177 Dickins Dr., and the FCC owned plaza at 142 Dickins Dr. If approved, the amendment would support a proposed expansion to add a multi use gymnasium space.
The letter advises residents a decision to approve or refuse the application will be made by council. Written comments must be submitted before 4:30 p.m. on Feb. 23 and will be reviewed as part of the process.
The proposal has reignited opposition in the Dickinsfield neighbourhood. A post circulating in a local Facebook community group urges residents to write letters to council, arguing previous expansion attempts were halted by community members seeking to preserve green space and maintain the character of the area.
The Family Christian Centre has not publicly responded to the renewed concerns. Council has yet to schedule a public hearing date.
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