A discretionary use application has now been approved for the microbrewery proposed for the Riverview area.
The application was approved unanimously at council Monday, clearing the way for the proponents of the project to renovate the building into the craft brewery at 702-102nd St.
That location is the former armoury that most recently housed the Battlefords Trade and Education Centre.
The application approved Monday was for approval of a brewery as a discretionary use, with the ancillary use of a tavern. According to administration officials, under this wording the tavern could not operate without the brewery, which officials believe will alleviate some of the concerns expressed from local residents about the project.
The microbrewery’s proponents Brad Taylor and Gregg Tady sought the discretionary use application to allow alcohol to be served. They are seeking to restore the original brick appearance. In addition to the brewery they plan to include an upscale eatery and pub as well as a tasting room.
The proposed project has proved contentious at times. A public hearing at council in March brought out considerable opposition, mainly to the idea of a bar being placed in proximity to the Riverview neighbourhood.
However, an open house was held on March 21 at which time details of the craft brewery proposal were presented.
According to Director of Business Development Jennifer Niesink, most of the feedback has been positive to the development.
“We’re still very excited about this project,” Niesink said. She noted the open house was “very successful” with a large amount of positive feedback.
Still, there were a couple of letters of opposition sent in to City Hall, expressing concern about the impact to property values. But that was the only opposition expressed, as Niesink emphasized most residents were in favour.
“It’s still a very good project to go forward with,” said Niesink.
