Neighbourhood says no deal to Nissan

Some residents in the Riversong community are upset over the proposed development of a Nissan dealership.

Earlier this week, a group of residents started an online petition “Fight Against the Nissan Dealership in Riversong, Cochrane ” stating they “strongly objected ” to the development of the dealership.

“When we moved in we were told (the site) would be more useful like a grocery store - a bunch of us are really surprised to hear it will be a dealership, ” said Steph Gillies, who created the petition and Riversong resident.

The town approved the land use in 2006, designated as Highway Commercial, which includes car dealerships as a permitted use.

“Another dealership could ruin the character of the community and cause community members to be unhappy. The proposed sitting of the development is particularly ill-considered due to the lack of amenities in our community, ” the petition reads. “As this is a family community there are many benefits to more family friendly buildings for example a restaurant or a grocery store. We would like to maintain a family friendly neighbourhood. ”

At press time the online petition had 71 signatures with a goal of 1,000.

“No public hearing (has been scheduled) at this point because the land use is in place/approved, ” explained Laurie Drukier, senior communications adviser with the town.

The majority of responses on the online petition stated they were in agreement with adding other amenities such as a grocery store but did not think the community should allow “another dealership ” in the area.

“We want something useful, no one buys cars every week, ” Gillies said.

“Maybe we can get something else or the dealership can be relocated. ”

The town has not received the petition and could not comment on it.

Nissan could not be reached for a comment at press time.

The link to the petition is www.thepetitionsite.com/174/624/211/fight-against-the-nissan-dealership-in-riversong-cochrane/