Residents in Campbell River’s council chambers broke into applause after city council voted down a proposal to allow industrial uses on two parcels of land at the former Elk Falls pulp mill site at last week’s city council meeting.
The mill, located just off the Island Highway in north Campbell River, closed in 2010 after ceasing operations in 2009.
According to a city report, property owner NTE Maple Holdings Ltd. proposed rezoning portions of 4200 and 4405 Island Highway from rural to industrial.
The company’s request included a range of uses for the land to provide flexibility for future business opportunities and attract a wider variety of tenants.
In the report, staff recommended council consider the proposal for first and second reading, followed by a public hearing, on the basis that it aligns with the official community plan (OCP).
The pitch was opposed during the regular council meeting on Oct. 9.
“I’d like to kill it right away by not supporting first and second reading,” said Coun. Ron Kerr.
Mayor Kermit Dahl shared some of the concerns that were voiced at the council table.
“If it was going to be a change to density, to townhouses or something that is needed, that would be completely different,” said the mayor. “But to change from residential to industrial, whether it aligns with the OCP or not, is unacceptable.”
The proposal was then unanimously defeated.
“It doesn’t mean it won’t be developed,” Dahl said. “It just won’t be industrial.”
