Things are looking good for Peter and Jane Hammond on receiving the third temporary commercial use permit ever granted by Metchosin.
“We have approved it in principle,” said Mayor John Ranns explaining council has requested the district planner draw up a permit. “We want to see what the permit will look like.”
The permit is expected to allow for a 66-seat restaurant with the ability to seat people outside on the Rocky Point Road farm. It would also stipulate hours of operation. Ranns said it will be similar to long-time local eatery My Chosen Cafe.
Council also tentatively approved a roadside stand for goods made on site to cater to people on the Galloping Goose trail.
Other stipulations could include the facility being dark sky friendly.
“Nobody opposed this (at the April 15 meeting),” Ranns said.
A TCUP is good for three years and can be renewed once.
Metchosin denied the Hammond’s request to hold assemblies including weddings, conventions and meetings.
Council has asked staff to look into the issue district-wide.
“Right now no one can have a commercial wedding legally in the Metchosin,” said Ranns adding council is often requested for permission to do so. “Wedding can be a source of neighbour complaints.”