Innovation bar scrapped

Photo: Contributed

Owners of the Okanagan Innovation Centre have scrapped plans for a liquor primary facility on the roof of the soon-to-be-completed building in downtown Kelowna.

Council did not have a positive reaction to that plan when it was presented a few weeks ago, asking the developer to go back and re-think the plan.

"Based on community feedback regarding possible rooftop operations at the Okanagan Innovation Centre, the applicants have withdrawn the C7LP (liquor primary) zoning application and associated liquor primary licence application, and are now only applying for the development permit amendment for the addition to the interior rooftop space," city staff stated in a report for council.

The enclosed restaurant has been increased in size by about 51 square metres from the original design. A storage space will be eliminated to allow for the expansion.

"The final roof plan and landscaping plan represents a simpler version of the original considerations in 2014."

Contrary to assumptions, the rooftop space was never considered as a public amenity, open to the public.

It was to be an amenity used by the tenants. However, the inside and outside space would be available for public rental.

"The proposed addition will allow for an interior capacity of 37 persons and an outdoor capacity of 298 persons. Food and beverage, bar and soft seating, amplified music, and catering services would be available within the increased space," said the staff report.

Operating hours have not been determined.

Council will review the changes Monday.