The business owner behind a proposed Nordic Spa development in the area of Blackhead Road in St. John’s is not surprised by the opposition to the concept, but she’s hoping people will see the benefits.

Rebecca Bezanson says she understands why local residents are opposed to a commercial development in the rural and residential region.

A recent public meeting on the proposed development got heated, with area residents expressing serious concerns.

Bezanson says she gets it, but says if approved, the development will be the first of its kind in Newfoundland.

She says it’s a circuit taking customers through a series of experiences from hot, to cold to rest and back through the process again.

She says admission will allow you to spend an entire day at the spa, but once you leave, you won’t be able to return.

Bezanson says among the concerns raised was about alcohol consumption at the site, but she says alcohol is limited.

She says the use of alcohol is part of the relaxation experience if a client so chooses, but is limited to one an hour.

St. John’s City Council will vote on the required rezoning application in mid-July.