More information needed before decision made for massive North Okanagan gondola project

Regional district directors are asking for more information from the developer before approving a massive gondola project in the North Okanagan.

Regional district staff recommended Regional District of North Okanagan directors not approve of the project along the west of Highway 97, 670 metres south of the Bailey Road intersection because it doesn't fall in line with the district's Official Community Plan. 

However, politicians decided to go in a different direction and requested developer Ridge North America to gather more information by holding public meetings and consultations with surrounding communities and Ministry of Transportation as well as getting approval from the Agricultural Land Commission for non-farm land.

“They agreed with staff that was what presented was light on information and what the planning department did was provided an alternative resolution which incorporated all the questions that weren't addressed,” said Lumby director and regional district chair Rick Fairbairn. The decision was made Thursday, March 3 during an electoral area advisory committee meeting.

With the close proximity to the rail trail, the proposed project has been so popular because it adds another dimension to the North Okanagan tourism business, Fairbairn said.

A media release issued last month by Predator Ridge Resort says the base of the Okanagan Gondola will be a "family-friendly, resort-inspired space" featuring an amphitheatre, a cafe, a farmers and artisan market, as well as restaurants and cafes and shops.

READ MORE: Gondola proposed to overlook Kal Lake near Vernon

Ridge North America could not be reached for comment Saturday, March 5.

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