Editor:
My husband and I are long-time visitors to the Sunshine Coast and have recently become residents of Gibsons.
We've lived for years in Nanaimo, West Kelowna and Calgary, witnessing numerous developments that represented the good, the bad and the ugly. We've also seen the charming Brentwood Bay Inn.
We read with interest Graham Walker's letter to the editor of Sept. 19. We are in complete agreement with Mr. Walker's opinions on a new boutique hotel in Gibsons.
New development works most effectively when it enhances its setting and fits well in scale and design. Over-sized private housing and bloated commercial developments can degrade their communities for decades.
Our Gibsons home does not look over the harbour, but we've enjoyed walking into the area regularly with our guests. We've examined some of The George drawings and see that some fine ideas have been suggested, including what appears to be a view corridor between complexes.
However, we also feel that the existing plans call for a project that will be too large, with a vertical presence on the waterfront that will be significantly overbearing.
Those who love the quaint cities and towns of Old Europe do not spend thousands of dollars every year to visit monster houses and large-scale developments, but to appreciate quality, diversity and historic architecture.
The harbour and waterfront views in Gibsons add a priceless charm to this area that deserves to be preserved. We agree that any new buildings should celebrate the harbour, not overshadow it, and view corridors to the waterfront must be protected.
Deborah and Russ Greaves, Gibsons
