10047 Ricardo Road, Coldsteam, site for proposed light industrial subdivision. (photo / Google Earth)

By Kevin Rothwell

7 large lots

Coldstream heavy industrial subdivision approved

Feb 11, 2021 | 2:35 PM

A developer has received approval for a heavy industrial subdivision at 10047 Ricardo Road in Coldstream.

The property is located behind the Vegpro International salad packing plant, between the C.N. Rail line and Coldstream Creek, just off Highway 6.

The developer of ‘Aquila Business Park’ was before council Monday (Feb. 8) seeking variances on the width and length of a cul-de-sac leading into the development.

“We have been working out here for the last 12 months cleaning up the property and getting it ready to go. We have hauled away 30,000 pounds of unearthed steel and garbage,” developer Doug Roberts said.

The proposal is for seven lots with a minimum lot size of 2.47 acres or one hectare, allowing for on-property parking for employee’s and a considerable building footprint.

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10047 Ricardo Road development concept (photo / District of Coldstream)

Council was assured it would not just be storage yards full of equipment.

“The goal here is to have people moving here to work and live. We have some folks in the Vernon area, that are looking to relocate their business out here.” Roberts added. “Our vision is to have large fabrication, agriculture equipment, heavy equipment and industries like that.”

The company is looking at having a building permit in place in the next 90 days, for a 40,000 square foot, 10 bay facility.

Roberts is also working with B.C. Hydro to bring a suitable service into the property to handle the proposed large power draw for heavy industrial development.

The developer has been working with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and B.C. Ministry of Environment on restoration of 700 metres of riparian zone along Coldstream Creek. Additional trees and shrubs will be planted along the creek and also to screen the view from the Coldstream Creek Estates area.

Council expressed concern about fire crews being trapped in the cul-de-sac.

An amending motion stating that ‘an emergency access route be added to the plan was agreed upon. The amendment, along with slight variances on the length and width of the cul-de-sac, passed unanimously.

Roberts indicated he would like to begin installation of services and roadworks over the next two to three months, with lots available for sale by summer.

The Aquila Business Park is one of the first heavy industrial land developments in several years, and follows the recent development and announcement of light industrial lands in Vernon with the Silver Star road development and Vault development on 45th Avenue.