A commissioner has been named to hold public hearings into a controversial development on Queen’s Road in downtown St. John’s.

Lawyer Chantelle MacDonald Newhook with conduct one hearing in person, and another via Zoom next week.

The Parish Lane project will see townhouses built along Queen’s Road, and an apartment building facing Harvey Road.

But it’s also smack-dab in the heart of St. John’s renowned ecclesiastical district, which was designated a National Historic Site in 2008.

Council has already approved changes to allow the development, leading to the next stage — the public hearing next Wednesday, July 20.

The Zoom option will be offered the next day, Thursday, July 21.

MacDonald Newhook is a former assistant deputy minister with two departments of the provincial government.

Her report, including recommendations, must be forwarded to council and the Department of Municipal Affairs within 30 days after the hearing.