Revitalization of one of the oldest buildings in Kelowna to go to public hearing

KELOWNA – A proposal to restore two heritage buildings and build a commercial space in the Kelowna's Mission neighbourhood has been forwarded to public hearing.

City councilors unanimously agreed the revitalization of the Surtees homestead and barn, located at 4629 Lakeshore Rd., would be a positive change in the area.

The heritage revitalization agreement would see a partnership between Worman Resources Inc. and the City of Kelowna.

“This project achieves a number of things we as a council value,” Mayor Colin Basran says. “It allows us to revitalize heritage assets that we haven’t found room in our budget to fix.”

Having owned the property since 2002, the City would enter a 75 year land lease with Worman, if the proposal is approved.

In addition to restoring both heritage sites, a round-a-bout will be constructed at Collett and Lakeshore Road.

“It will open up access to a trailhead for healthy and active living,” Basran says. “Also, it will address a very dangerous intersection in our community.”

Built in 1910, the Surtees homestead is one of the oldest buildings in Kelowna’s mission area. The barn was built in 1927.

Both buildings have deteriorated significantly and are in desperate need of repair.

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