A proposed rental development in Beamsville has sparked an unusual land-use battle: Could two mid-rise buildings make neighbouring vineyards colder?

The Beamsville Bench Winery Association is holding a fundraiser as it prepares for an Ontario Land Tribunal hearing over UrbanLink Developments’ plans for 5205 King St. in Beamsville.

The real estate developer wants to build two mixed-use rental buildings of six and seven storeys. The project requires official plan and zoning amendments, including approval for additional height. The Town of Lincoln is opposing UrbanLink’s appeal.

The winery association says the buildings would be nearly twice the height currently permitted and could disrupt the flow of cold air down the Niagara Escarpment.

According to the association, independent modelling found the additional height could act as a barrier, causing cold air to settle over nearby vineyards and lowering nighttime temperatures by one to three degrees. It says that could increase the risk of frost damage, particularly for Riesling and Chardonnay grapes.

The association has raised $60,000 toward its $145,000 campaign for expert studies, planning advice and legal representation ahead of the hearing.

The dispute puts two important pieces of Niagara’s economy in direct conflict: the push to add rental housing through higher-density development and the finely balanced growing conditions that support the region’s wine industry.

The OLT has scheduled a nine-day hearing beginning Oct. 5.