In a $650,000 sale, the District of Squamish has bought a 5.3-acre (2.1 hectare) property between Smoke Bluffs Park and the tip of the Mamquam Blind Channel along Loggers Lane, by the Adventure Centre.
In a news release, the municipality said that the area, known as the Drenka property, is zoned industrial, but designated as greenway for environmental and recreational use in the Official Community Plan.
The District said this purchase ensures the property will never be used for industrial purposes.
“The acquisition of this property enables us to preserve our natural environment and support convenient access to parkland and outdoor recreation as our community continues to grow,” says District of Squamish Acting Mayor Jenna Stoner in the release. “The District wishes to acknowledge and express thanks to the Drenka family for working with us to secure this important acquisition that will bring lasting benefits for the community."
According to the release, the municipality has been eyeing the property for a long time.
In its real estate and facilities master plan, the land was designated a top priority for acquisition because an existing water line for the District’s water supply system crosses the property.
Furthermore, the municipality says it has high riparian values due to the proximity to the Mamquam Blind Channel, while its proximity to Smoke Bluffs Park makes it an important asset for recreational and trail-related interests.
