Councillors back buildup of Wal-Mart

Hamilton is getting closer to seeing a lot more Wal-Mart.

Councillors gave Smart Centres preliminary approval yesterday to build a Wal-Mart on Centennial Parkway near the QEW and expand its Rymal Road location to include a grocery section.

Both projects faced opposition from residents who questioned the impact of the big box retailer on the local community.

"Wal-Mart would be a devastating blow to our family business," said Anthony Longo, who owns an independent grocery store on Rymal Road. "When one door opens, I believe several others will close."

Studies show both commercial centres can be supported without having a negative impact on other retailers. But Councillor Bob Bratina, who opposed the projects, quipped that if someone believes the findings, he has "some land to sell."

"You're making a big mistake," he warned the planning committee, arguing the Centennial site could be better used to relocate the waterfront rail yard.

The east-end proposal calls for a $100 million mixed-use development on an 6-hectare plot that includes the former Waxman scrap yard. It promises to bring $2.4 million in annual taxes and 1,500 jobs.

The complex will include office and commercial space, a hotel and a Wal-Mart, which will be relocated from Eastgate Square.

The land is partly zoned for employment, but council voted last year to ignore planning staff advice and convert it to commercial.