Skaha Bluffs Access

Thanks to the efforts of Bill Turner, the Executive Director of The Land Conservancy, progress has been made towards resolving the Skaha Bluffs access issue. There are still many problems to overcome but a tentative way forward now exists.

An option to purchase is in place on Sub Lot 18, which is the 740-acre property at the south end of Skaha Bluffs. The option is subject (among other things) to an appraisal supporting the option price.

If this deal can be completed, the province of BC will hold the title to SL 18. Their interest in this land is primarily as wildlife habitat rather than recreational access.

Fundraising details are still under development, but will likely require contributions from government, corporate and private sources. The owner of SL 18 has agreed to make a very substantial gift toward the purchase.

Access to SL18 is off Smythe Road, through another property. If access can be gained to SL18, we will have a long-term solution.

It is hoped that the deal will close at the end of May, but delays are possible. Then, there is still some roadwork required.

Efforts are being made to secure temporary access until access via SL 18 is ready.

Additional details will be posted here at this blog as they become available.

To learn more about The Land Conservancy, or tmake a donation, go to http://www.conservancy.bc.ca/ . If we end up soliciting public donations to this specific project, an appropriate link will be added to the TLC website.

As Bill Turner said, “If we pull this off we will solve the access issue in perpetuity.”