The possible expansion of a drug store in Osborne Village already has area residents talking.

The Shoppers Drug Mart on the corner of Osborne Street and Roslyn Road is looking to expand its current 10,000 sq.ft. by adding a partial-second storey, and a further 7,600 sq.ft. at street level going towards River Avenue.

In order to expand southwards, Shoppers will have to buy out Vietnamese restaurant Vi-Ann and video store Movie Village.

“It’s not necessary,” said Allyna Ward, a two-year resident. “It detracts from the vibrancy and fun of the village…. We don’t need (an expansion). It is already open 24 hours. It seems excessive.”

The company also wants to include a covered walkway from the store to Safeway.

Bev Peters, who lives in Wolseley but comes into the Village frequently, sees this as an issue of pedestrian access.

“This is a thoroughfare for those who live and work in the area. It’s a pedestrian zone. I’m not in favour of big box store expansions in the core.”

The owner of Movie Village, who lives in British Columbia, could not be reached for comment. The owner of Vi-Ann was also unavailable.

An open house was held at Holy Rosary Church Tuesday evening to outline the development. The City of Winnipeg board of adjustment will hold a review of the extension on Dec. 21.