A proposal to develop part of Prince George’s Watrous Park to construct an extended care facility will not be proceeding past initial stages.
After being considered this past summer, the developer has decided against choosing the park as the location due to a combination of public feedback and updated cost estimates.
However, the City says the project will still continue and alternate locations are being considered.
“The developer has been working with the City for multiple years with a proposal to construct a facility to allow for the long-term care needs of individuals with special care requirements,” said spokesperson Mike Kellett in an email, adding the ideal location for a care facility would be near the hospital.
The proposed purchase was at market value, which would offset relocation costs of the lawn bowling green and playground.
“When a developer is interested in purchasing parkland from the City of Prince George, the developer enters into a contract with the City, which is subject to a number of clauses, including multiple stages of public consultation, which must be satisfied before the project can go to a public hearing in front of Council, let alone before construction would begin,” Kellett explained.
The first step was to request feedback from the surrounding neighbourhood and the Lawn Bowling Club, which occurred this past fall.
A petition against the development was created by concerned neighbours as a response.
Additionally, updated estimates for site preparation were developed, given that the site had previously served as an outdoor public swimming pool and the pool’s old foundation would need to be removed.
Something going on in the Prince George area you think people should know about?
Send us a news tip by emailing [email protected].
