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Ladysmith, BC — Construction is officially set to begin on the long-anticipated redevelopment of the Island Hotel, a heritage-designated building located at 440 1st Avenue.
A new five-storey building will replace the original three-storey structure that was built in 1900. Once completed, it will feature ground-floor commercial tenant space and 22 residential units above, topped with a rooftop patio. Although the building will be fully demolished, the original façade will be preserved and incorporated into the new structure.
A soft start to construction will take place on June 16, beginning with fencing off a portion of the Town-owned parking lot at 117 Gatacre Street. The initial work will allow the developer to install a site office trailer and temporary facilities. Additional preparation will also occur in the adjacent parking area, with full setup of the site scheduled for June 27.
To support construction, the Town has issued a Licence of Occupation allowing temporary use of the 117 Gatacre parking lot for up to 24 months. Under this lease, at a monthly rate of $1,087, the developer will use the site for construction offices, first aid facilities, washrooms, worker parking, and a laydown area. During this period, the lot will be closed to the public.
As a result, a total of 28 public parking stalls will be temporarily unavailable—22 stalls at 117 Gatacre and 6 stalls on neighbouring streets. No accessible parking stalls will be lost, although one accessible stall will be relocated slightly due to a nearby bus stop adjustment.
Over several months, Town staff and the developer carefully evaluated various staging and crane placement options. This plan was selected because it best minimizes parking loss, enhances construction efficiency, and reduces disruption for residents, businesses, and visitors.
"We fully appreciate that the closure of the 117 Gatacre parking lot may be frustrating for some residents," says Nicholas Pescod, the Town's Communications & Engagement Specialist. "However, the alternative options would have caused considerable congestion and parking difficulties on 1st Avenue, resulting in unnecessary hardship for residents, visitors, and businesses alike."
Furthermore, a tower crane will be installed within the building’s interior elevator shaft. Shoring will also be required to support the façade along 1st Avenue, causing a temporary reduction in the public walkway and some parking impacts. Sufficient pedestrian space will be maintained throughout, and the partial closure will be lifted once the façade is structurally reinforced by the new building.
For the latest news and updates, visit the Town’s website at www.ladysmith.ca, as well as Facebook and Instagram.
The Town of Ladysmith respectfully acknowledges that we gather and work on the unceded territory of the Stz'uminus First Nation, the traditional keepers of this land.
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Media Contact Nicholas Pescod Communications & Engagement Specialist npescod@ladysmith.ca 250-268-0606