The city's first commercial winery cleared another hurdle this week following city council's approval of a development variance permit.
The application by Northern Lights Estate Winery, owned and operated by former MLA Pat Bell and his son Doug, is to situate the winery facility with no front yard setback, as opposed to the required 4.5 metres.
The property has a flood plain convenant registered on the title, requiring a 30-metre setback from the natural boundary along the Nechako River and a minimum flood construction elevation of more than 570 metres.
"The reduction in the front yard setback will provide more space for planting shrubs and trees along the river frontage, which will assist with riverbank stabilization and riparian enhancement," said a city staff report.
Work has already begun at the P.G. Pulpmill Road property with the planting of more than 2,200 fruit and berry plants to be used for future wine production, such as hardy apples haskap, gooseberries, hardy cherries, raspberries, black currants and rhubarb.
Specializing in fruit wines, the 1.7-hectare property is intended to feature an orchard, wine shop and outdoor event facilities.
"The city has been extraordinarily supportive and continues to be as we apply for the remainder of our permits," said Doug Bell, in a press release.
Construction is expected to begin this year and be open to the public by next summer.
