A proposal to build a large storage silo to house the raw materials for making concrete – a structure that would feature thousands of LED lights as a design element – earned the initial approval of Victoria councillors sitting as committee of the whole today.

Trio Ready Mix has proposed the nearly 32-metre silo as part of its new concrete plant at 2800 Bridge St., which borders the Gorge Waterway. While the existing industrial zoning for the property allows for structures up to 15 metres in height, the committee recommended approval for a height variance.

The silo’s contribution to reduced greenhouse gas emissions for the plant, its appropriateness for the industrial waterfront and the artistic softening of its impact using the LED display helped push the project forward. City council will discuss the application next week and is expected to send the proposal to public hearing for comments before making a final decision.

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