Atherton Council Approves Multi-Storey CBD Development to Fund Priors Creek Project

Without the need for council borrowing, approval for four- and five-story structures is intended to draw in investors, increase tourism, and revitalize Atherton's town center.

To raise money for the new Priors Creek recreation area, the council hired consultants to draft a development application for seven of its own lots in the central business district. In response to inquiries about why Stage 2 was proceeding without selling the freehold parcels as originally intended, Mayor Rod Marti stated last year that the council would not borrow funds for the Prior's Creek redevelopment.

At that time, he stated, that they absolutely must finish this project; he doesn't think they are in a difficult situation. This is their project; they have allotted funds, received large grants, and have a genuine interest in the freehold lots, which is great. They just need to move forward.

The council's decision to permit four- or five-story structures in the CBD area could finally draw the investment it has been looking for.

The council report states that the approval would enable commercial development opportunities for food and drink establishments as well as short-term lodging and units that will support population attraction and retention, meet local demand, and offer top-notch tourist accommodations.

The paper claims that the modification permits a variety of applications, such as lodging for tourists, retail, commercial services, hospitality, and short-term lodging. The decision boosts the local economy and helps nearby businesses by allowing greater foot traffic and activity in the CBD.

The application's success pleased Mayor Marti. Following the November meeting, he stated that Atherton wants to draw in the proper kind of investment and that these locations are perfectly positioned to enhance and complement the current business center while also activating our prime public spaces.

He said that permitting well-designed structures up to five stories in Priors Creek Parkland's lowest area and up to four stories at Mabel Street's higher elevations makes an appealing return on investment possible, gives investors more options and assurance, and aids in the creation of a more lively, active, and appealing CBD.

This has to do with updating and optimizing their town center. In addition to supporting small businesses and bringing more people into the center of Atherton, strategic commercial infill guarantees that Priors Creek's public areas and paths are surrounded by high-quality development.

As mandated by the Planning Act, the application will now move on to the subsequent phases of the development evaluation procedure.