Bay Roberts needs sea can policy, says Franey

By Mark Squibb

Bay Roberts council is hoping to soon adopt a new policy governing the use of shipping containers, also known as sea cans, as accessory buildings.

During the April public meeting, council refused a request from Newfoundland Power to run power to a sea can at 175 Central Street.

Councillor Silas Badcock argued it wouldn’t be appropriate to permit electrical services to the sea can, as it may negatively impact the street’s character and facilitate ongoing use of a ‘nonstandard’ structure.

In lieu of allowing power to the seacan, council will permit power hookups to a permanent accessory building on the property.

“I think this is a prudent move, seeing as we don’t have a sea can policy,” said councillor Dean Franey. “And we’re starting to see more of them. I don’t know if it was on VOCM or CBC or in The Shoreline, (but I’ve heard) other towns are looking into the fact that they need to develop a sea can policy, as we’re seeing them pop up more as structures on properties. I don’t think we should allow too much in terms of permanent services, like electricality, without a proper policy in place.”

Mayor Geoff Seymour concurred.

“I don’t think a sea can is something that you want to see power running to,” said Seymour. “It certainly speaks to a bigger issue, because we’re going to have to develop a policy, because they’re popping up everywhere, and some of them not very sightly, for sure.”

Director of Protective Services Gregory Squires said that a sea can policy has been drafted and will be presented to council this month.

Council unanimously rejected the application for 175 Central Street.