Overture Investments has received approval to establish a $41-million seniors development on the former Devine St. school site.
Sarnia council approved official plan amendments and changed zoning so the company can build two towers at 321 Devine St.
"I think this is a good plan," said Councillor Bev MacDougall. "I think this is going to be a good renewal project for the former Devine Street School property. In all the 20 some odd years that I have been reading planning reports from the city, never have I seen so much detailed concern for buffers and separation from abutting residential neighbourhoods, which is really, really excellent to see."
The Overture on Devine will include care beds for seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia and apartments for both independent seniors and those who require assistance.
"I do believe there is pressure in our community to see these kind of redevelopment projects move forward and also to provide economic renewal," MacDougall said.
Developers are planning to start construction as soon as site plans are complete and building permits are issued.
The site, at Devine and Brock streets, has been vacant since the public school closed in 2010.
