Two all beef patties, special sauce and ….demolition

The former McDonalds site at 1746 Water in Kelowna is slated to be torn down by late October.

“Demolishing the building is necessary as it’s fallen into disrepair from extended vacancy and due to proximity to the creek it doesn’t lend itself well to repurposing,” said Graham Hood, Strategic Land Development Manager. “This property represents a unique opportunity for future redevelopment and ensuring it is in attractive condition for lot consolidation and future redevelopment options is beneficial to the City’s long-range financial and capital plans.”

Removal of asbestos and lead will begin next week with demolition of the building anticipated in late-October. Creek protection steps will be taken as part of the environmental mitigation measures and monitoring given that the building is located within the riparian area adjacent to Mill Creek. Invasive Elm trees will also be removed from the property.

The city purchased the site in May as part of an agreement to resolve outstanding claims stemming from the revised road alignments necessary for construction of the William R. Bennett Bridge in 2007.

“Coupled with last year’s acquisition of the former Husky station at 380 Harvey Ave, we’re excited by the opportunities this property represents as a key location in the city’s western gateway,” said Hood. “A plan for lot consolidation and future redevelopment options that leverage the site’s prominence at the entrance to both Kelowna and the downtown core will be brought forward for council’s consideration in the coming months.”