Building out tree fruits land

Photo: NSDA Architects

Conceptual drawings.

Kelowna city council has given initial approval for a rezoning and OCP amendment for a development on the former BC Tree Fruits property on Clement Avenue.

The development would see the construction of two six-storey mixed-use buildings on the southeast portion of the property along Clement Avenue and Richter Street.

Together, they would house 148 rental units, including 60 one-bedroom, 87 two-bedroom and one three-bedroom.

While staff did support the project, planner Adam Cseke says that support did not come without some concerns.

Those concerns surrounded how to adequately integrate the residential and commercial components within the larger north end industrial area without undermining its viability.

"Maintaining adequate supply of centrally located industrial land is an important objective in the OCP and the long-term success of the city," said Cseke, adding the applicant inquired about including residential on a lot further east.

"Staff was not willing to support on the balance of the site, any residential for rezoning to send a clear message to the surrounding industrial area that there should be no further bleeding of residential into the industrial area."

There are also concerns about a large, at-grade parking facility on the north end of the site.

Cseke says the magnitude and size is a concern, which will have to be resolved at the development permit stage.

"This is a key location," said Coun. Mohini Singh.

"I'm looking for the wow factor in the final product. Just having buildings with a few trees and a coffee shop just doesn't cut it. I'm just looking for something really spectacular."

Previously, in 2012 and 2013, there were three proposals for the property. A brewery on the eastern portion, public market in the centre with residential along the western part.

Both the brewery and public market have since fallen by the wayside.