The developers behind the controversial Banks Crescent development proposal will not look to construct a seniors care facility at another Summerland location.
Last week, after more than a year of reports, presentations, letters and petitions, Summerland’s municipal council voted 5-2 against the development proposal.
The proposal was for a 415-unit seniors care facility, to be constructed on a 5.7-hectare property overlooking Okanagan Lake.
The project was presented to the public in November, 2016 and since that time, many in the community had said they thought it was a good idea, but in the wrong location.
However, Gary Tamblyn, one of the people behind the development, said it is not viable to build at another Summerland location.
Kirk Fisher, senior vice president of the Lark Group, said the developers have felt disappointed since the decision came down.
“It is unfortunate that the few, loud vocal residents who are opposed to the project drowned out the silent majority of Summerland residents who are in favour,” he said.
“We feel strongly that the project would have greatly benefited the community, bringing hundreds of local jobs, boosting the District’s economy with infrastructure investments and ongoing revenue stream, and providing much needed housing for seniors. We engaged the community and have worked diligently with the District throughout the entire process.”
While the seniors complex is now off the table, Fisher added that the decision does not necessarily mark the end of the Lark Group’s interest in Summerland.
“We hope to have an opportunity to be a valued member of the community in the future, and be able to contribute to the survival of Summerland,” he said.
Linda Tynan, chief administrative officer for Summerland, said council’s responsibility in the Banks Crescent decision was to determine whether the project, at the proposed location, would be approved. Suggesting another site was not an option for council.
She said the application was for a specific piece of property, owned by the developer.