It’s going to be a difficult road ahead for a company looking to develop a Nordic spa in the capital city.
Developers behind Iceavik Nordic Spa were originally shot down by city council in 2023 when they proposed a location in Shea Heights.
Residents had voiced numerous concerns about the possible impact on their neighbourhood.
The company’s application for discretionary use of a portion of undeveloped land on Kenmount Hill was approved by council yesterday, but that does not mean the spa has received city approval.
Coun. Carl Ridgeley explains says there are a number of hoops left to jump through, including a floodplain study due to the proximity to Kitty Gaul’s Brook.
He says George’s Pond Road will need to undergo a number of service upgrades in order to be on par with city standards. Changes will also have to be made to the intersection, and a second access point to the property will be needed due to fire safety concerns.
Over 600 letters were sent to the city about the development, most of which were in favour.
Ron Ellsworth
That said, given the multiple hurdles, Coun. Ron Ellsworth doubts the spa will ever come to fruition.
“I’ll try and be a little more blunt,” he said. “I’ll be shocked if this actually happens.”
