NANAIMO – After the recent presentation to City Council of an overview study for the feasibility of a major events centre in downtown Nanaimo, the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce is promoting public engagement in the next phase of the study.
Toronto architectural firm Brisbin Brook Beynon reported on their four-week study of the centre’s financial, physical and planning considerations and its potential benefits. The next phase of the study will focus on in-depth market research, economic impacts, concept design, capital costs, further site studies, operating proforma, project funding and a formalized meeting with the Western Hockey League. The firm has a variety of experience with similar successful projects around the world.
Just a week previous to this presentation, the Chamber presented author and urban affairs expert, Gord Hume, at a speaking engagement in Nanaimo where he proclaimed his belief in building such a project to be a ‘game changer’ for Nanaimo.
Hume was a City Councillor in London, Ontario and a promoter of that city’s events centre’s development. Hume pointed out that with careful management, their “Budweiser Gardens” pays the city a dividend of $1.5 million a year.
Kim Smythe, Chamber President & CEO stated “This could be an incredible opportunity to gain a community asset with significant tourism product value and the potential for excellent economic impact over the short and long term.
The community needs to learn more about these benefits, they need to speak out and they need to be part of the decision making. We’ll promote participation during the course of the study and help keep the community aware of opportunities to take part via social media.”
The first public information meeting will be held Thursday, November 24 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm in the Beban Park Social Centre. Subsequent meetings are planned for December 1 and December 8. A report on this phase of the study will be delivered to Council on December 19.
