An agreement for the proposed big-box development on Fifty Road in Winona has been reached. A press release, which can be read here, explains the agreement between City Council and developer Penady to build a commercial complex. The agreement also allows the city to proceed in its planning of the proposed transit hub for HSR and GO Transit service.

The plan for a 443,000-square-foot commercial development has had a rough ride over the past few years as citizens groups tried to stop the development from happening. In early 2009, residents argued about the size and location of the development, and the impact that the retail giant Wal-Mart would have on small businesses nearby.

By late 2009, three community organizations appealed the proposed commercial development with the Ontario Municipal Board, saying that council's decision violated provincial and city planning policies. But by 2010, the appeal was withdrawn and an agreement with Penady was made. A community liaison committee would oversee the development and developers would communicate with the public before submitting plans to council.

By 2011, the city and Councillor Brenda Johnson were being sued by the Penady developers. The statement of claim filed by Penady claimed that the city and councillor "engaged in deliberate and unlawful conduct in the purported exercise of their public functions."

The Spectator wrote about the claim and the reasoning behind the Penady action, explaining certain motions in January 2011 had delayed the planning process.

As of today, the lawsuit has been withdrawn against the city and Johnson. The press release explains:

Penady will withdraw a lawsuit against the City of Hamilton and Councillor Brenda Johnson, amend a severance application before the Ontario Municipal Board in accordance with the agreement with the City and, has already withdrawn a “bump-up” request on the GO Niagara Environmental Assessment.

Despite all the setbacks, Penady is finally able to put shovels into the ground. How do you feel about this? Is this commercial development a good thingfor Hamilton? Do you think a Wal-Mart in Winona will affect small business? Let us know below in our comments section.

Photo by Walmart Stores via Flickr.