Artist concept for residential/commercial complex on Vernon Street in Lumby. (Image submitted)

By Kevin Rothwell

lifestyle change

Developer leaving ‘big city atmosphere’ to focus on new project in Lumby

Jul 6, 2022 | 5:00 AM

A long-time Kelowna developer looking for a quieter lifestyle in Lumby, is waiting for final approval to construct a $9-million residential/retail complex in the village.

The nearly two-acre property at 1879 Vernon Street is already home to several businesses including a dollar store, thrift store and restaurants.

1879 Vernon Street in Lumby (Image credit: Google street view)

“The concept is basically residential and commercial. There would be nine, second storey, two bedroom apartments, and nine ground-floor retail units,” developer Rene Dureault told Vernon Matters. “In addition, we will also be renovating the existing mall, not structurally, but ascetically.”

Existing tenants will have the opportunity to remain as part of the development.

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Dureault, who was president of Mill Creek Development in Kelowna for nearly six decades, described the move to the Monashees as a lifestyle change, as much as an opportunity.

“We see a lot of potential in Lumby, it is geographically close to Vernon and has most amenities,” Dureault explained. “We have all moved to the area, both my daughters have moved here and purchased properties in Lavington and Coldstream. I have bought a property just past Lumby. We just didn’t like the big city atmosphere of Kelowna anymore, the traffic is horrendous and the prices are astronomical for rental or purchase.”

He added that he has met a lot of people moving to the area for a lifestyle change.

A development application was applied for 12 weeks ago, and construction would start once those permits have received final approval from Lumby council.

“We have had a lot of interest, but also a bit of controversy. Some people don’t like change, but it has been mainly positive. We have received calls from all over Vancouver, Kelowna and so on, from people that see the potential of Lumby,” Dureault noted.

by Kevin Rothwell

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