Photo: Town of Oliver

A render of the timber-frame canopy originally proposed by Mundi Hotels for the new Coast hotel currently being built in Oliver.

The developer of a new Coast hotel being built in Oliver wants to stray from the original plan for the entrance canopy in front of the building, but they may not be granted permission from the town's council members.

Mundi Hotels proposed to alter the timber-frame canopy to a steel-frame canopy, which would require council members to amend part the town centre development permit. 

The steel-frame canopy is proposed to have wood and stone accents and be painted to match the building, as stated in a report from town staff.

The reason for the proposed change, according to the town's report, is "in relation to an incorrect set of plans accompanying the construction contract (and the budget associated with this)."

Staff also noted in the report "the proposed changes are not deviating in a substantial way" from guidelines set out in the town centre development permit area.

Oliver Mayor Ron Hovanes said council was conflicted by the developer's request.

As a result, council asked Mundi to reevaluate their plan and deferred their decision until the next council meeting on Feb. 5.

"It really is a wish of our council to go back to a timber-frame canopy, if at all (they) can find the possibility of doing that," Hovanes said.

"I think part of this is, the original design that was brought forward to council, it looked a little grander than what they are proposing at this time."

Hovanes noted the holdup to make a decision won't impact the hotel's construction deadline, which is slated to open late in the spring.

Photo: Town of Oliver

A render of the newly-proposed steel-frame canopy by Mundi.