The Province has taken the next step toward protecting Heritage Island from further development.

The Province is removing 11 hectares of Crown land on the south shore of Bridge Lake from a restrictive designation called a Use, Recreation and Enjoyment of the Public reserve, that prevents the land from being developed. The change will allow government to consider an outstanding application from a local developer to swap the privately owned island for a package of Crown land that includes the 11-hectare parcel.

If the application is approved, a development originally planned for the 28-hectare island could relocate to the new site on the south end of the lake. Government would also be able to designate the island as a public reserve, protecting in perpetuity the island’s environment, archeological sites and recreational value.

Cariboo Heritage Land Development Ltd. originally submitted the application in October 2008, and the government called for public input on the plan. Since then, staff from the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations have worked with local residents, conservation groups and the Canim Lake Indian band to address concerns and develop the land exchange plan.

Before government makes a decision on the swap, the developer must submit biological and archeological impact reports. As well, for any development to proceed on either the private or the Crown land parcel, Cariboo Regional District will have to rezone the land.

Media Contacts:

Greig Bethel
Media Relations
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261