RDCO looks at land swap to expand Scenic Canyon Regional Park

Photo: RDCO

The Regional District of Central Okanagan is getting creative in an effort to expand Scenic Canyon Regional Park.

The RDCO board has approved using the Alternative Approval Process for a proposed exchange of parkland for Scenic Canyon Regional Park.

The exchange would see the RDCO acquire approximately ten hectares of new parkland and receive an estimated .86-hectare right of way for Scenic Canyon Regional Park from property owned by David Geen.

"The exchanged lands will provide for future trail and park connections between Scenic Canyon Regional Park, the Mission Creek Greenway and to City of Kelowna parks and trails," says Murray Kopp, RDCO Parks Services Director.

"The RDCO would also receive approximately $454,000 in net compensation for the difference in land valuation to be used for future parkland acquisition. In exchange, the Regional District would transfer 8.67-hectares of land in the park to Mr. Geen," said Kopp.

The move won't become official until it is approved through the Alternative Approval Process. Residents who support the proposed parkland exchange are not required to do anything.

"Those opposed must submit a completed Elector Response Form to the Regional District by 4 p.m. March 1, 2021," said Kopp. The Alternative Approval Process requires at least ten per cent of the electorate to oppose the plan before a referendum would be forced.