By Troy Gillard

Controversial proposal to move ahead

Red Deer Dream Centre wins appeal

Dec 11, 2019 | 4:40 PM

An addictions recovery facility for downtown Red Deer can now move ahead following a key ruling on Wednesday.

The city’s Subdivision and Development Appeal Board has overruled the previous denial of the application for the Red Deer Dream Centre at 4614 50 Avenue, the former home of the Lotus nightclub.

The Municipal Planning Commission denied the application on Oct. 16, saying it was not compatible with existing developments in the area, or the intent of the municipal development plan for the downtown area.

But the appeal board instead felt that the ‘social agency’ use of the facility falls within the Land Use Bylaw for downtown which allows for temporary care facilities.

The approval is subject to several conditions, including one that makes Dream Centre operators responsible for any damage done to public property by development or construction on the site.

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Prior to starting construction, Dream Centre operators must provide the city with plans that incorporate crime prevention through environmental design. They must also submit a revised south elevation and west elevations for the renovated building and ensure sanitary services are in working order. Outdoor storage at the facility is prohibited.

The appeal board also approved revised plans for an on-site kitchen and recreation area for the facility.

“We are just overjoyed,” says Dream Centre co-chair Wes Giesbrecht. “We are thankful that this can now move the next step. We really believe this is a monumental decision that our city has made, and they’re not going to be sorry.

Giesbrecht remains confident that the approved location for their facility is the right one.

“It will produce results that are favourable to our community,” he says. “We’re turning on a big lightbulb in the middle of a dark spot. That says it all. We are really about bringing hope and recovery this area. I believe this a vital part of the city’s program in revitalizing downtown.”

The appeal board agreed with that sentiment, stating in its written decision “The Board is persuaded that the proposed development supports the ongoing re-development and revitalization of the Downtown area.”

The board also noted in its decision that a number of nearby businesses that had been opposed to the Dream Centre now support it. They also said having the addictions treatment facility in another part of the city could have more of a negative impact for residents.

There is now a 30-day window in which the appeal board’s ruling can be appealed to the Court of Appeal on a question of law.

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