City of Powell River Council has approved an amendment to its zoning bylaw that would allow for an outdoor gathering area adjacent to Townsite Brewing.
At its March 19 meeting, councillors voted to change the zoning on the subject property from general commercial to milltown centre, to match the zoning of the Townsite Brewing facility so that the development can proceed.
Councillor Rob Southcott said this proposed bylaw was to change the zoning of the lot that is immediately adjacent to the lot that is occupied by Townsite Brewing and owned by the same owner.
“The recommendation here to change the zoning is intended to bring the zoning of that lot into conformity with the zoning of the lot that Townsite Brewing is on, in order to allow Townsite Brewing to extend its operation in terms of a patio-type addition,” said Southcott.
Councillor Cindy Elliott said she thinks Townsite Brewing’s intention is to build a parklike setting in the vacant lot.
“It’s going to be lovely; it’s going to have gardens that are similar to what was historically there,” said Elliott. “I’m looking forward to seeing it.”
According to a staff report, the desire to consolidate the properties was tied to Townsite Brewing’s wish to establish a licenced picnic area over an area within the subject property. The report stated that a liquor manufacturer may apply for one or more outdoor picnic areas onsite, where patrons may consume products obtained from the facility. This is a consumption area only; no sale or service is permitted.
Picnic areas may be up to 1,000 square metres. They must have a clearly defined boundary and be located at ground level on grass or gravel. The picnic area must not be used as an overflow area of a lounge.
The Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch requires that picnic areas be located on the same property as the manufacturer, hence the need for zoning conformity.
