R.H.Estates

The city Planning Commission this week tentatively approved a development concept for a 300-acre residential project centered on the old Chandler quarry, but not before it rejected condominiums and town homes in response to residents’ concerns about density.

The developer, Cayman Development Co., will be held responsible for controlling traffic and grading in connection with the development, which will require a massive landfill. Cayman had proposed 600 homes and clustered town houses, but under the new plan, it would be allowed to construct only single-family homes and duplexes.

The “planned community zone,” which the commission is scheduled to formally approve June 17, gives the city a process for handling the long-term development, which includes reconstruction of the golf course and clubhouse at the Rolling Hills Country Club. After commission approval, the plan will go to the City Council, which will hold public hearings. Cayman has not submitted a specific development plan to the city.

The commission vote this week came at the end of a second public hearing before a packed audience as residents of Rolling Hills Estates, Torrance and Lomita continued to object to the project on environmental grounds. About 55 acres of the project are in Torrance and Lomita adjoins it.