Kelowna heritage home set for demolition

KELOWNA, BC – Efforts to save a heritage home on Royal Avenue in Kelowna have failed, leaving demolition crews to take down the structure.

The period-revival home built in 1939 was on the heritage register because of it’s unique architecture that was considered modern at the time.

The house and property are owned by the Interior Health Authority (IHA), part of three lots purchased in 2012.

While the home was offered for $1 to someone who could move it, the costs to move it were prohibitive, according to Central Okanagan Heritage Society president Janice Henry.

Kelowna City Council approved the demolition on February 18th following two public meetings.

The properties will become a 91 parking stall lot for Kelowna General Hospital. The emergency department is right across the street.

While residents have complained about the destruction of the home, they have also complained about the hospital patron parking impacts on their neighbouring streets.

Neighbours are now concerned with the City’s move to rezoning the neighbourhood to HD3, which would allow hospital support businesses.

A meeting is taking place between neighbours and the City’s planning committee tonight.