In This Week’s Editor’s Note:
- Tofino: zoning amendment application submitted for new fire training facility
- Comox Valley: building permit issued for new Union Bay Firehall
- Courtenay: open house December 8 for 100+ unit BC Housing supportive housing complex
Tofino: zoning amendment application submitted for new fire training facility
A zoning amendment application has been submitted to allow the Tofino Fire Society to construct a new fire training facility at 570 Warren Way (DL117). The proposed development involves repurposing shipping containers into a modular, multi-storey fire training structure designed for live fire, rescue, ladder, and search exercises. Although shipping containers are typically limited to storage under the current zoning bylaw, the adapted structure would be considered a purpose-built steel training apparatus and will require a building permit under the BC Building Code. The property is within the Wildlife Habitat Development Permit Area, and environmental protections will be required, including invasive weed removal, restoration of a 15-metre wetland buffer with native plantings, and installation of systems to contain runoff from training activities. Additional buffering will be needed along the north and west boundaries to manage onsite drainage. A transportation review supports access via Neilson Place, with the existing Campbell Street access limited to inbound use. Parking requirements are met onsite. Prior to adoption, an easement or dedication will be required for the Neilson Place access, and a driveway width variance may be explored.
Comox Valley: building permit issued for new Union Bay Firehall
A building permit with a value of $7 million has been issued to Simic Architecture for the Union Bay Firehall. Knappet Industries (2006) Ltd was awarded the construction contract for $4,945,000. This project has been under development for a few years, and received electoral assent for a funding bylaw earlier this year. A request for construction quotes was released in September. The existing fire hall no longer meets the needs of the department as it has limited parking access for staff, newer fire trucks don’t fit the bays and is generally too small. This new building will be built on a 1.0 hectare (2.48 acre) parcel facing South Island Highway and close to Beaufort Road.
Courtenay: open house December 8 for 100+ unit BC Housing supportive housing complex
BC Housing has announced the operators for the supportive housing complex coming to 925 Braidwood at Ryan Road. Connective is to operate the purpose-built shelter while Lookout Housing and Health Society will operate the permanent supportive housing. The experienced non-profit operators are to manage the buildings, maintain the properties and provide support to residents. There will be an open house on December 8 for the community to meet the operators and get the latest updates about the shelter and housing development. The open house is at Glacier View Secondary School, 241 Beecher Place in Courtenay from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
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