The B.C. government is looking for Expressions of Interest from agencies, societies and businesses for the future use of the historic Craigflower Manor and/or Schoolhouse lands in View Royal and Saanich.

Proposals should include details about how the proponent will increase the financial viability and self-sufficiency of the lands, as well as plans to ensure that the proposed use will provide benefits back to the surrounding community. Candidates with compelling proposals may be invited to participate in a Request for Proposal process at a later date.

Copies of the Requests for Expressions of Interest package are available on the BC Bid website at: www.bcbid.gov.bc.ca (click 'Browse', then choose 'by organization', click 'Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations', then 'Use of Craigflower Manor and Lands, View Royal, BC' or 'Use of Craigflower Schoolhouse and Lands, Saanich, BC').

Expressions of Interest must be received before Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2013, at 2 p.m. (local time).

The Craigflower Manor and Schoolhouse are two of 23 heritage sites owned by the Province. Operated as historic site museums by a third-party manager for almost a decade, visitors to the Craigflower properties have dwindled to the point where continued museum use has become unsustainable. A new model of use, which is still compatible with the lands, is being explored.

Currently, the schoolhouse is serving as site offices for the construction managers in charge of the Craigflower Bridge replacement project, while the manor remains vacant.

Learn More:

Heritage Branch: http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/heritage/

Craigflower Manor and Schoolhouse: http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/heritage/historic_sites/craigflower.htm

Media Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261