Kelowna gets its first look at new project along Okanagan Lake

It has taken several years to get to this stage, but details on the redevelopment project slated for the Aqua Marine Valet and boat storage property along Okanagan Lake have been released.

Preliminary plans were unveiled at an open house by Kelowna-based Mission Group Homes as the public got its first look at the six-acre redevelopment. The development plan is for a multi-phase residential project located at Lakeshore and Truswell. The existing Aqua Marine Valet service would be reconfigured and would be contained withing a new indoor structure and operated from a private boat launch next to the existing Cook Road boat launch.

According to Mission Group, the development will also include the construction of a new section of the lakefront public boardwalk that currently fronts Manteo Resort and the Eldorado Hotel.

“This is a substantial project and it will play a central role of the evolution of the Mission Creek neighbourhood,” said Luke Turri, Development Manager for Mission Group Homes. “Our goal is to create a project that complements and enhances the neighbourhood and establishes itself as a sophisticated and well-designed landmark that the community can take pride in.”

The property is comprised of the existing Aqua Marine Valey site owned by Misson Group and five lakefront residential properties that the Mission Group has under contracts. According to the company, it is designated for mixed tourist/residential accommodation in the City’s Official Community Plan and will be developed under the C-9 (Tourist Commercial) zone, which currently covers the majority of the site. Rezoning of the residential lots and a variance for building height will be required before the project proceeds.

The company will respond to the feedback received from the community and will come back in September with a plan that reflects comments and concerns heard, After that, Mission Group will move into the formal part of the approval process with the city.