After months of delays and consultation, Langley Township council finally made a decision about a controversial townhouse project.

Council voted seven to one in favour of rezoning land along 200th Street and 70th Avenue to allow the construction of 101 townhouses.

Newly elected Councillor David Davis voted against the plan.

"Why build more townhouses and add more children to an already filled school like R.C. Garnett?" Davis said.

The planned development for the Routley neighbourhood, has led to fiery opposition from some neighbours. That is because the land was originally designated as a school site, and many people bought the new homes in the area thinking their children would eventually attend classes just a short walk away.

The Township had set aside the land for possible school and park use, but the school district instead suggested a three-way land swap involving the Township, district, and a developer. The district wanted another piece of land to the northeast. Locals objected that they wanted a school to the west of busy 200th Street.

Only the district has the power to choose where schools may go, noted Coun. Steve Ferguson.

"That decision is not up to council," he said.

However, the revised plan will make enough room for both a small community park and, potentially, a school on the remaining plot of land.

Coun. Charlie Fox noted the extended period of bouncing the matter back and forth between school board and council, calling it "a game of ping pong that has gone on far too long in my opinion.

The matter will now head back to the school board tonight (Tuesday).