Slocan-based eco-tourism business looks to make valley 'world class destination for adventure tourism'
By Nelson Daily Staff
An ecotourism business expected to create jobs in Slocan is hoping Village council will approve a rezone for a relatively unused portion of municipal land, moving its zoning from residential to commercial.
Winlaw’s Christine and Valentino Berger are planning to build an adventure tourism business on their property in the village at 611 Slocan St. On Oct. 17 they sought council’s approval in principle on the project they say will benefit Slocan and help the region become known as a world class destination for adventure tourism.
Council did approve the proposal in principle, however, they still need to resolve questions of access, servicing and extending services across the undeveloped Village lane, said a report from chief administrative officer Jack Richardson..
“Any new business opportunity within the Village should be given positive consideration,” read his Village staff report. But “consideration should be given to impact on surrounding lands and Springer Creek.”
The proposal includes the development of Berger’s six lots along Springer Creek. Currently, there is no developed access to these lots.
Under the terms of the proposal, water and septic would be provided from the four lots owned by the Bergers on Slocan Street.
The plan includes the Village-owned alleyway that cuts the 10 lots in two. The Bergers will be asking the Village to donate the alleyway in between the properties for the purpose of the business.
“In return we will make sure key members of our staff (cook, custodians, etc.) are residents of Slocan City,” read the Berger’s letter to council.
Precedence was set in the village for resolving lane closures or disposals when council dealt with the lane issue crossing the property owned by Slocan Holdings.
The Village does not define an eco-tourism business, or have zoning regulations for such a use. Under Tourist Commercial Zone (C-1), permitted accommodation uses are limited to hotels, motels and lodges or campgrounds.
Richardson said an amendment will have to be made to the Land Use Bylaw to define eco-tourism, zoning would have to be amended to include eco-tourism as a permitted use, density of the operation (units allowed) will have to be considered, as will off-street parking.
The proposal
Using six lots the Bergers own along Springer Creek they foresee four all-season yurts — with septic and water supplies across the lane on the other four lots they own.
A kitchen and dining area will be included and, as the business grows, they will add more accommodations, such as single cabins.
The Bergers will be offering tours for all different skill levels throughout the Slocan Valley, such as bike tours, hiking tours and river excursions.
“We will be using many of the resources already available in the valley,” read the Berger’s letter to council. “We hope to attract clientele from as far away as Europe.”
Comments