Editor:

A main issue with the proposed George Hotel is its scale in relation to the Gower Point Road business block.

To quote architect Randy Knill (Coast Reporter, Oct. 5), while admitting to a big building, he uses such bland assurances as “looking more like a jumble of buildings” and that up close it has the character of a small building. Who is Knill kidding? By any standards, his proposal is massive and it will be like a carbuncle on the face of the harbour.

 Many different views have been expressed about the impact on the business area and the probability of increasing pedestrian traffic. However, would this not still be seasonal, and wouldn’t the hotel compete with the existing restaurants?

Surely the main drawback to more tourists is the high cost of ferry fares, and the simple reason why businesses moved away is competition from the Sunnycrest Mall. The Bank of Montreal had no qualms about deserting Lower Gibsons, but was there any protest from the business community over this? What thought has been given to advertising the Coast’s attractions Canada-wide? What about a sign indicating Lower Gibsons’ attractions near the ferry terminal similar to the one approaching Chemainus from the Island Highway?

As to encouraging more families, I don’t think Klaus Fuerniss’ apartments will help in this regard. Judging by the number of single-family homes in Lower Gibsons, there is no shortage of families. To those who praise the beauty of Gibsons yet desire vibrant growth, isn’t that an oxymoron? Vibrant growth does not go with the tranquility cherished by most residents, as witnessed by the fight to reduce density and to protect Gospel Rock. Lower Gibsons and its harbour compares to any harbour across Canada for its setting and its views.

Ray Eagle, Gibsons