Local business, MBRP, is expanding

Local manufacturer of high performance exhaust systems and parts distributor MBRP is expanding.

Planning Consultant John Gallagher was before Huntsville’s Planning Committee on February 14 seeking approval for zoning exceptions to allow additional uses on MBRP’s property at 335 Old Ferguson Road.

Gallagher said Martin and Ginger Barkey were “putting in their application to expand their business in Huntsville with a new 22,000 square foot manufacturing facility.”

Additional uses on the lands will include light metal fabricating and aftermarket sales and service of motor vehicle and recreational vehicle products.

Gallagher said the application confirms with the Provincial Policy Statement, the District Official Plan as well as Huntsville’s Official Plan. “In that regard the employment aspect is a major consideration to be given at a time when there’s contemplation of other businesses closing down. Martin and Ginger have invested a significant amount of time, energy and money in keeping the factories open in this area and employing local people in this area.”

Councillor Bob Stone said he loved the economic implications of the expansion and wished the Barkeys well. He also asked about the impact the expansion would have on the visual impact from the highway and asked how much of a buffer there is.

“It’s pretty much tucked in behind the existing garage and two buildings,” he said. “I did notice yesterday when I was driving by that it is hard to see it from the northbound… so it’s well set back from the highway.”

Staff recommended that the application be approved and committee and council agreed.

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