The opening this week of a spectacular $14-million equestrian centre and clubhouse marks the completion of Cressey Development’s High Point Estates, an equestrian-themed neighbourhood that brings a high-end burnish to Langley Township’s unofficial role as the horse capital of B.C.
“This is an exciting day for Langley,” said deputy Mayor Mel Kositsky. “It fits with our profile as a place that welcomes the horse industry.
The 8,000-square-foot equestrian centre houses a huge indoor, light-filled riding arena, outdoor riding ring, a 1,000-square-foot clubhouse with bar, pool tables and covered patio, tennis court and a 4,000-square-foot fitness centre with his and hers steam rooms, yoga area, cardio, stretch and weight rooms.
“It’s absolutely grand,” said High Point resident Noel Asmar-Curtis, owner of an equestrian wear company and one of the first to purchase a lot in the subdivision.
Asmar-Curtis says she travels all over the world for her business and has not seen a facility that equals High Point’s.
The centre, which sits on eight acres, also features spacious horse barns with 40 stalls that are for sale or lease, and is available for riding lessons, boarding, training and facility rental for community events.
High Point was “impacted pretty hard” by the recession, said Cressey development manager Jason Turcotte, but sales are becoming “really strong”.
The 287-acre development, a former gravel pit in south Langley, has 164 home lots ranging from half an acre to eight acres. Lot prices start at $529,000 and houses range in size from a massive 26,000-square-foot house now under construction to more modest 2,500-square-foot homes. Some 60 lots are still for sale.
Turcotte said his company was surprised at the number of buyers who are not involved with horses.
“We expected to get the horse people, but we’re actually getting a number of people who want the country feel, who like the idea of horse activity but don’t ride themselves.”
As part of its development agreement with the Township, High Point has dedicated 90 acres to public use as riding trails, protected wetlands and a spring-fed lake. The nine kilometres of trails connect to the 30 kilometres of existing trails in nearby Campbell Valley Regional Park.
Turcotte said Cressey has no plans to build a similar development because High Point was the result of a unique confluence of public vision and private development activity. “It is unique in Canada,” he added.
The public is invited to attend an open house at the equestrian facility this Saturday, May 14, from noon to 4 p.m. High Point is located at 658 200 St.
