Kelowna Christian School looking to expand

Photo: Contributed

Kelowna Christian School is hoping to expand, but will need both city and provincial approval in order to do so

The private school has applied to the provincial Agricultural Land Commission for a non-farm use on the property situated on Benvoulin Road.

An application for a non-farm use on the 3.03 hectare property was approved for construction of the school in 1988. Construction began nine years later.

Because the entire property remains part of the Agricultural Land Reserve, the school is required to reapply for a non-farm use in order to expand.

"The school is currently used for students from Grades 6 to 12, and they are looking for more space to adequately accommodate all current and future students," planning staff stated in its report.

The addition to the north and west side of the existing structure will add approximately 3,540 square metres.

The city's Agricultural Advisory Committee gave a positive recommendation, but did voice some concerns about the lack of a long-term strategic plan for agriculture on the property.

"It is viewed as slow, gradual erosion of agricultural land," the committee noted.

They also suggested the school consider a rooftop garden and incorporating curriculum and scholarship related to agriculture.

City council must give its blessing before the application can be forwarded to the ALC.

"If successful a Development Permit will be required following this application to address parking, fire access, form and character and landscaping of the proposed addition."