Lindsay Chung
Record Staff
Comox Valley residents will have a new dining option in East Courtenay.
Council voted last week to issue a development permit for the Prime Chop House and Wine Bar at 1089 Braidwood Rd. at the bottom of the Ryan Road hill.
Architect Tony James says the restaurant is similar in style to The Keg, but it will be independent and locally owned.
"The design approach we've taken is that of a contemporary West Coast architecture, with extensive use of wood and heavy timber, a considerable amount of natural stone and judicious use of glazing," he said. "(It's) an intensely landscaped site utilizing indigenous and low-maintenance planting."
Prime Chop House will have 240 seats, divided into lounge and dining areas and a patio off the lounge.
The vacant property is between the Van Isle Veterinary Hospital and the RCMP detachment. The restaurant would be accessible from Braidwood Road and identifiable from Ryan Road.
Coun. Manno Theos thought the exterior was attractive, and he liked the use of wood and stone, and Coun. Larry Jangula was also impressed with the design.
A number of outstanding conditions related to landscaping, signage and parking must be met before the permit is issued.
"The landscaping is a visual amenity, as well as an integral component of our stormwater management approach," noted James.
The onsite stormwater system will mimic the runoff characteristics of the site in its natural state, and an oil-silt separator will be installed on the storm system to further reduce pollutant transfer, according to the applicants.
To ensure no impact to existing streets, the applicants propose on-site parking in excess of the minimum bylaw requirements, and the applicants are also providing secure bicycling parking and changing, shower and locker facilities for staff to discourage unnecessary automobile use. Visitors’ bicycle parking racks will also be provided.
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