Smith Creek Development Lands Westbank, BC

Area Overview

The Regional District of Central Okanagan is centrally located in British Columbia's southern interior. Within close proximity to both Vancouver and Calgary, the Okanagan Valley has an estimated population of over 360,000 and offers a skilled workforce, excellent infrastructure, a diversifying economy and a quality of life that is truly unmatched anywhere else in Western Canada.

A very popular domestic, national and international tourist destination, the Okanagan offers a range of lifestyles that take advantage of the regions features, particularly the impressive Lake Okanagan. Winter activities are also very popular with two major ski resorts attracting visitors from across Canada, the US and internationally. Characterized by its semi-arid climate and its notorious dry, sunny summers with daytime temperatures that often exceed 30 °C, the Okanagan offers incredible four season activities and a stunning backdrop for residents and visitors alike.

The majority of the area's residents live in the City of Kelowna, the region's main centre. Other notable communities include West Kelowna, Lake Country and Peachland. Kelowna ranks as the 22nd largest metropolitan area in Canada. The Smith Creek lands are situated in West Kelowna approximately 18 kilometres from Kelowna's downtown core.

Property Overview

Located in the District of West Kelowna, the Smith Creek development site is situated in the Smith Creek neighbourhood, north of the Westbank town centre and west of Shannon Lake Golf Course.

Consisting of 107 contiguous acres, the property is immediately adjacent to recently developed single family neighbourhoods, all of which have been planned to ultimately include this site in the areas continued expansion.

The property's topography is varied with average slopes estimated at between 15 to 25% for areas outside of the Smith Creek envelope. Smith Creek traverses the western half of the property in a north south direction. The property also has several plateaus with slopes of less than 15%, which are ideal for lot development taking advantage of valley and lake views. Overall slopes are relatively consistent with adjacent areas that have been developed.

The property is not currently serviced; however all required services are located in close proximity to the subject property. It is likely that any development of the property will require the construction of a water reservoir for fire protection.

Existing access to the property is off of Dixie Road and Smith Creek Road. Dixie Road provides access to a private property that is situated on this site's northern boundary. Smith Creek Road connects through the property, but is not finished to municipal standards. Development of the property and the adjacent lands (which are owned by a development consortium) would require dedication and construction of Smith Creek Road through the property. Additional access easements and right of way might be required.

Zoning

The property is zoned Rural 1, RU1. The purpose of this zoning bylaw is to accommodate agricultural and rural uses on parcels that are 30 hectares or greater and located outside of the Land Reserve. A full copy of the zoning bylaw is available in our full Detailed Package.

Based on discussions with Planning Staff from the District of West Kelowna, this property is identified as being part of a Comprehensive Development Plan area. Development of this property to single family use is consistent with existing neighbourhood uses and the Official Community Plan. The ultimate scope of any future development is not further defined, however it is understood that the subject property, in concert with the adjacent lands, would be planned and developed as part of a comprehensive residential development area.