cabelasOpinion was split pretty much right down the middle at last night’s public hearing on the proposed major retail development on McCallum road in Abbotsford.

The development will include a number of retail and restaurant businesses, anchored by Cabela’s sporting goods.

A slight majority of the twenty or so speakers expressed concern about the development, saying they weren’t sure a big box store fit with the direction the city wants to go.

Dylan Thiessen said he didn’t think the development fit with the “seven big ideas” that’s part of the City’s vision for future development.

“Another major commercial development equally as spread out as High Street and Sevenoaks Mall will not create a city centre. Constructing it along a major transit corridor with 650-odd surface parking stalls also does not help create a walking, cycling, and transit friendly environment. It doesn’t design places for people, and it does not foster natural beauty.”

Many however where excited about the new opportunities, including Bridget Belliveau.

“I feel it’s going to improve our property values with the addition of a drug store, a grocery store, retail and restaurant outlets within walking distance, and reduce the need of vehicles in that corridor.”

Council deferred debate and voting on third reading to the next meeting on June 15th.