ABCO location on Tannery Road , Lunenburg
Lunenburg’s Town Council has voted in favour of giving ABCO Industries an exception from the towns Architectural Protection Area.
The majority vote means that ABCO will be able to use materials that were previously restricted for its expansion. Mayor Rachel Bailey and Councillor Ronnie Bachman voted against the motion approving ABCO’s requested land-use changes.
The company which primarily makes equipment for the food service industry says in order to remain competitive they need to increase their production capabilities.
Owner Jason Huskilson says the current building does not meet their needs if the company wants to grow.
“Before COVID-19 we were on target to hit our sales and production goals in February, meaning we may have had to turn work away in the future,” said Huskilson in an email.
An aerial view of ABCO proposed developments. Photo: ABCO Industries
The expansion will see ABCO increase the floor space of their main production facility on Tannery Road. The exterior of the building will be covered in steel cladding, which would not have been allowed without the approval of council.
In the lead up to the decision members of the public spoke out on both sides.
In opposition residents raised concerns that a major industrial renovation could disturb the aesthetic appeal of Lunenburg.
Ultimately council sided with ABCO and residents who feel it is important that companies on the South Shore be able to grow and continue to employ people around the region.
In addition to the expansion a brewpub is also under construction on ABCO’s property but it’s plans did not include anything requiring amendments to land-use by laws.
