Porte Homes proposes transforming three single-family lots into a 110-unit market condominium building along Charles Street, incorporating sustainability, nature-focused design, and family-friendly amenities.
A major residential development could be on the horizon for the Westport area of Port Moody, as Porte Homes (Charles Street) Ltd. has submitted a comprehensive application to the City for a six-storey apartment project at 1865, 1875, and 1885 Charles Street. The plan would see three single-family homes consolidated and rezoned to accommodate a wood-frame, multi-family residential building with 110 strata condo units.
With a strong focus on sustainability, topography-sensitive design, and community-oriented spaces, the proposed Charles Street Residences represent a significant step forward in meeting the City’s housing targets and urban growth strategy.
A Site Designed to Fit Nature and the Neighbourhood
Situated between College Park, Seaview, and Moody Centre, the 1.51-acre site has been designated for “Six-Storey Multi-Family Residential” under the City’s Official Community Plan and is part of the Evergreen Line Sub Area A, known as “Westport.”
Porte’s proposal aligns closely with both municipal and regional planning goals. Though zoned for detached housing (RS1), the application seeks rezoning to RM8 to allow for the construction of two connected apartment buildings (Buildings A and B) separated by a firewall and integrated into the site’s natural slope. Notably, the project incorporates a protected wetland and seeks to enhance its ecological function with buffers and riparian planting, rather than displacing it.
What’s Inside: 110 Market Homes with a Variety of Unit Types
The six-storey structure would include 110 market condo units with a diverse mix designed to cater to singles, couples, and families alike:
74 one-bedroom units (most with flex space or den),
25 two-bedroom units, all with two bathrooms,
11 three-bedroom units, geared toward families.
Nearly a third of the total homes (36 units) are considered family-oriented, and 52% of all units are adaptable, making them more accessible for people with mobility needs.
Despite the site’s challenges, such as a steep grade and environmental constraints, the proposal stays well within density (1.36 FAR vs. 2.4 permitted) and site coverage limits (40% vs. 60% allowed), showcasing a low-impact development approach.
Amenity-Rich Living: From Rooftop Gardens to Nature Playgrounds
Community amenities are a central focus of the design. Between the two buildings, a 3,100 sq ft courtyard offers a child-friendly playground with features like the Kompan Villa Playhouse, embankment slide, and hill climber rope. Adjacent is a 1,526 sq ft indoor amenity room in Building A.
Residents would also enjoy a:
6,312 sq ft rooftop amenity with urban agriculture plots, BBQ areas, seating and lounging zones,
Picnic area and woodland pathway connecting the development to its rear greenbelt,
Layered landscaping with privacy-enhancing hedges, wood benches, and native planting.
The design promotes indoor-outdoor integration and encourages community connection while respecting the natural environment.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations at the Forefront
A robust environmental strategy guides the project. The proposal includes:
A 5-metre vegetated buffer around the on-site wetland,
Tree preservation plans retaining 90 of 127 mature trees, with 74 replacements proposed,
Pollinator-friendly planting and bat/bird habitat design,
High-efficiency irrigation systems, and
Landscape elements that comply with Step 3 of the BC Energy Step Code.
The development integrates a variety of native trees, shrubs, and groundcover species, with detailed methods for planting, irrigation, and soil preparation—all reviewed under Canadian Landscape Standards.
Transportation and Parking with a Mind Toward Metro Vancouver's Trends
Parking is proposed via a four-level parkade, with 140 car stalls and up to 169 bike storage spaces. Porte has requested a variance to allow for:
Fewer visitor stalls (12 vs. the standard 21), citing data from TransLink’s 2018 parking study showing lower demand,
Increased small car stall percentage (44% vs. 33% permitted), justified by Metro Vancouver’s most commonly owned vehicle sizes.
The site’s proximity to cycling networks, transit connections, and walkable amenities reinforces its potential as a transportation-friendly, less car-dependent residence.
Planning and Public Input in Progress
The development application, submitted on April 15, 2024, includes a suite of supporting reports and design documents. Porte is seeking rezoning, subdivision, and multiple development permits, including those for form and character, environmentally sensitive areas, and hazardous lands.
Public input is being collected through the Engage Port Moody platform, where residents can review documents and submit feedback. A report with summarized public comments will be presented to City Council as part of the review process.
Meeting Port Moody’s Housing Needs
With Port Moody set to grow by over 5,000 residents by 2031—and a provincial housing target of 1,694 units by 2028—this project arrives at a pivotal time. Porte Homes emphasizes its commitment to partnering with the City to deliver much-needed, varied housing types, aligning with both local policy and provincial priorities.
Curious how this could shape the future of Westport and Charles Street? We’re keeping a close eye on projects like this to keep our clients ahead of the curve. Want to be one of them?
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