The new owner of Block 7 at Gospel Rock in Gibsons is looking to move forward with development on the property and has started contacting community stakeholders to discuss the plan.
Ji Yongqiang, who purchased the land – which was listed at just over $6 million – through a numbered company last year, has formed Greenlane Homes to handle the Gospel Rock Village project.
Greenlane Homes is bringing in consultants familiar with the Gospel Rock Neighbourhood Plan (GRNP). The partners of MODUS Planning, Design & Engagement include Rob Barrs, who worked with the Town of Gibsons on the early versions of the GRNP.
A press release announcing the kick-off of a community and government consultation quotes Ji as saying, “Gospel Rock Village will be the Sunshine Coast’s ‘Little Village with a Big View.’ We look forward to working with the Town of Gibsons and the local community to realize the vision of a new neighbourhood at Gospel Rock, a community by nature … We look forward to working together with the Sunshine Coast community to create a place that brings people together and honours the natural environment surrounding Gospel Rock.”
Under the GRNP, Block 7 is earmarked for “medium-density residential” development with park space on the waterfront and upslope from Gower Point Road. The GRNP also allows for some commercial development.
The company’s release says, “The initial directions for Gospel Rock Village include preserving waterfront lands around Gospel Rock, enhancing a network of public walking trails and creating a mixed-use, walkable village … The master plan and rezoning application for Gospel Rock Village will be designed to reflect the vision and values of the Town of Gibsons’ Gospel Rock Neighbourhood Plan ... This vision includes protecting sensitive ecosystems; ensuring that development is low impact and sustainable; and building a vibrant, healthy community that respects local values and reflects local character.”
Edward Porter of MODUS told Coast Reporter they’ve already had some discussions with the Town of Gibsons, and plan to meet with other property owners in the GRNP area, the Sunshine Coast Housing Society, the Sunshine Coast Regional District, and the group For the Love of Gospel Rock. They’ve also been in touch with former Gibsons councillor Dan Bouman of the Sunshine Coast Conservation Association.
MODUS wants to hold a public information meeting as well, but that will likely be a few months down the road. Greenlane Homes has set up a website for the project: www.gospelrockvillage.com
