I received a three-page letter from the Friends of Mara which states that the Mara Lake Marina at Two Mile in Sicamous has been approved by the ILMB (Integrated Land Management Bureau).
Quite a few letters were sent to the ILMB pointing out concerns such as alcohol consumption while operating vessels, drinking water quality and discharge of black/grey water into the lake. The ILMB responded by stating that these issues are not directly controlled by the Crown land mandate. This statement, to me, states that they do have some control in these matters. So, what has been approved by the ILMB in the past? Here is the impact on Sicamous: new marinas at Hummingbird and the Legacy, both on Mara Lake.
Three Buoys is planning to develop their condos in the Sicamous channel once the market climbs out of recession. They plan to have 60 plus boat slips in the development.
At the old Waterways property, also on the channel, there are plans to develop a facility between Mara Lake and Shuswap Lake to accommodate boats and houseboats.
In the last five years permits have been granted to at least nine condo developments along the shores of Mara Lake, which will provide 40 to 70 additional boat slips.
Summer traffic on the lakes will be a nightmare for small boaters and swimmers.
The RCMP is stretched to the limits with speeding boats, midnight houseboat parties, illegal fireworks and drinking violations.
Our roadways will be congested with vehicles and trailers blocking most of the side roads and main arteries. Askew’s’ parking lot is always a challenge for local shoppers.
Development is great for Sicamous but at a pace that reflects the market. Condos are not selling in the region even though the prices have been somewhat discounted. There should be no future marina or condo development until what we have now is sold and our present marinas are full.
If you want to voice your concerns, contact Jason Ladyman at the ILMB in Kamloops, or send him an e-mail.
Stop the development madness.
Gary F.T. Ferns
