Erin residents object to proposed rural event space near Ospringe
A decision will be made later on the proposal, which does not include any permanent structures
ERIN – Residents have voiced concerns about a proposed rural event space on a local farm, citing possible noise, light pollution and environmental impacts.
The property, owned by Pritesh Bhatt and Raksha Kholia Kishor, is located at 5475 2nd Line, just outside of the hamlet of Ospringe.
The proposed venue would host weddings and other events for up to 150 people, including event staff.
“The proposal before you is to add a special use to the subject lands to permit a special venue area for a portion of the lot,” said Odete Gomes during a March 12 public meeting.
Gomes, a project manger with Arcadis, a consultant representing the property owners, explained the land is zoned secondary agricultural and features a primary dwelling in which the owner resides.
The events venue would consist of an outdoor mowed lawn space, a loading area and a surface parking lot that would accommodate 113 spaces. The venue would be operational from April/May to October, between 7am and 11pm.
“There are no permanent structures proposed ... all event-related structures including tents, temporary toilets, catering stands, etc. are intended to be accommodated on the lands only for the duration of the event,” said Gomes.
A number of studies and reports were conducted prior to the public meeting, including a planning justification report, traffic study, noise study, environmental impact study, legal survey, grading and drainage plan and a stormwater management brief.
“My biggest concern is the noise,” said town resident Elmer Macgillivary.
“People moved up from the city expecting a rural, quiet lifestyle ... and looking at this application I don’t think it adds anything to the farming, rural or agri-tourism of Erin.
“Let’s not go down and make Erin or Ospringe a party destination.”
Resident Debra Davies echoed Macgillivary’s concerns, adding concerns regarding possible fireworks.
Gomes later confirmed there will be no fireworks permitted at the site.
Resident Cathy Hansen, who owns Bernway Farm, told council she has already heard loud music from the property within her home on two occasions.
Hansen said she is concerned about potential downhill water impacts, light pollution and fire safety.
“The fact that the applicant was encouraging people to book the venue for the 2026 season before having approval is disappointing,” said Hansen.
“This has created the impression that whatever process and bylaws are in place are either misunderstood or perhaps being ignored.”
Gomes said she takes full responsibility for jumping the gun, as she didn’t make it clear to the applicant that approval was required before they could advertise on the website.
“They have since taken [the listings] down,” said Gomes.
Heartwood Farm and Cidery owner Brent Klassen said he supports people starting agriculturally-adjacent businesses on their farms, but this proposal would “benefit the owners to the detriment of many others.”
He added his business’s “offer to the community and to our customers is jeopardized and potentially doesn’t work anymore if there’s music and stuff several times a week from April to October.”
The proposal was received for information and will return to council in the future for a decision.
