Dear Editor,
Bowen Islanders should be aware that municipal council is about to consider a proposal that would irrevocably change the character of the Snug Cove entrance to the island.
The owner of the Union Steamships Marina has applied for a development permit to build a 100-foot long garage whose seven-foot high back wall would be across the road from, and parallel to, the existing north-side blockwall along the Bowen Island Truck Road. We are concerned that such a long building may create a tunnel-like environment at the crucial entrance to the Cove. The municipality’s Advisory Design Panel expressed similar concerns when they reviewed this application, but now it is proceeding to municipal council.
On November 23, Council will consider a permit to vary the required set-back for the construction, and councilors will begin consideration of a separate development permit which is issued pursuant toaset of design guidelines that regulate the form and character of development within Snug Cove.
This whole matter needs more public input, in our view. Changes could be made to the proposed building so it can serve the desired function while not blocking one of the island’s most appreciated views at the entrance to the village of Snug Cove. The development permit guidelines themselves urge the preservation of view corridors to the water and mountain backdrop in the Cove; and they specifically direct that “all development proposals shall include a comprehensive landscaping scheme for the entire site”. Yet, we do not see any protection of the Arbutus trees and other greenery in the development area.
Our objections are not meant to obstruct further development of the Union Steamship Marina property. We are simply calling for more and better planning before this proposal goes ahead. We write in support of the Objectives of the Design Guidelines themselves, which are “to make the Gateway to Bowen Island as picturesque as its natural beauty and park setting so amply allows”.
Sincerely, Jack Little, Eric Sherlock, Jack Silberman, Peter Williamson
