Kamloops council rejects Station Plaza proposal, citing out-of-place design, poor consultation

“We are pleased that they took a time out to reconsider the project and reconsider how the project fits in with the character of the station that is right behind us and the whole concept of the Station Plaza and what works and what doesn’t,” said Bifano.

The main concern being voiced by those opposed to the building was that it wouldn’t fit with the rest of the historic aesthetic of the neighbourhood and the CN Station.

“I think something that is complimentary to that, and keeping with the idea of the Station Plaza and what we have going on here would be really appropriate and something that would be definitely supported by the people in this area,” added Bifano.

Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson was one of the six who voted against the development. He’s hoping to see more consultation with the public on the future plans.

“The engagement with the citizens wasn’t very great. And there was a lot of (concerned) citizens. We were expecting 40-to-50, but one gentleman took the lead for everyone. We need to listen to the citizens,” stated Hamer-Jackson.

Bifano, as he did to prior to the meeting, voiced his support for the vacant lot to be developed into something suitable for the plaza.

“We are not opposed to development. We want development. It’s a piece of property that can and should be used. But at the same time, we would like it to be consistent with the Station Plaza and the station itself which is an iconic building in the Kamloops area for the last, literally, 100 years,” said Bifano.

by Michael Reeve

Kamloops council rejects Station Plaza proposal, citing out-of-place design, poor consultation

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