Mapleton approves minor variance for dairy barn, manure pit
MAPLETON – A dairy farm in southeast Mapleton is set to build a new barn and manure tank closer to its neighbours than is typically allowed.
The township’s committee of adjustment approved a minor variance permitting the plan during an Aug. 12 meeting.
The farm, located at 7344 8th Line, is 40 hectares (99 acres) and includes a residence as well as the dairy operation.
The new barn is set to be built 171 metres away from the closest building on the neighbouring property, whereas the minimum setback required is 220 metres.
The new manure tank is set to be built 162 metres away from the neighbour’s building, whereas a 298 metre setback is required.
The impacted neighbour wrote to the township to say they have no concerns with the proposed barn and manure tank.
Township and county planners also expressed no concerns or objections, as did the Grand River Conservation Authority, Wellington Source Water Protection and local building, fire and public works departments.
“We don’t see any issues and we are in full support,” said township planner Jamie Barns.
In order for the committee to approve a minor variance application, they must find it:
– is minor in nature;
– is desirable for the appropriate development or use of lands; and
– maintains the general intent and purpose of Wellington County’s official plan and Mapleton’s zoning bylaw.
“The proposed manure storage and livestock facility are located within the existing farm building cluster and there does not appear to be an alternative location that will not further reduce the productive farmland or impede the natural environment zoning,” states a township report.
“The proposed location provides for operational efficiency. Staff have no concerns with the request and are of the opinion that the variance would maintain the general intent and purpose of the official plan and zoning bylaw and would be desirable and appropriate for the development of the subject property.”
Committee of adjustment member Peg Schieck said she visited the site and from her perspective the plan “makes good sense – it’s taking the barn and the manure storage away from the water course.”
Committee member Robert Stanners said he appreciated seeing the letter from the impacted neighbours.
“Quite often we don’t see any comments other than from the applicant, so I was really glad to see that there is a concerned citizen and that their comment was positive,” he said.
