Skip to content

Waverley Hotel patio closer to reality in Cumberland

Waverley Hotel and Pub patrons could have the option of relaxing on a patio this summer.

Waverley Hotel and Pub patrons could have the option of relaxing on a patio this summer.

According to Waverley owner Don McClellan, the patio would be a simple area with room for five tables at the back of the pub.

He added a patio is something his patrons have been suggesting for years.

"I've been here two years, and right off the bat, you know, people told me how much they would enjoy sitting in the sun, late afternoon, and enjoying a beverage and a meal," he explained. "So it's been one of the more asked-for things."

To allow for the proposed patio, McClellan applied to the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch (LCLB) for an amendment to the establishment's liquor licence.

Though the LCLB has the final say, the Village of Cumberland was asked to provide input, and council voted Monday to recommend the application be approved with restrictions.

Restrictions include: daylight hours use only; no use when live entertainment is occurring inside the pub; the patio must feature screening and noise reduction barriers; client access must be limited to the alleyway be restricted at all times; and the rear door must kept closed.

Village staff distributed 75 notices requesting comment to residents, businesses and property owners within 100 metres of the Waverley. Five notices were returned; one requested fencing, two residents were opposed due to noise concerns, and two businesses were in favour.

Village deputy corporate officer Rachel Parker noted the restrictions were suggested in response to the residents' concerns.

McClellan said he hopes to hear from the LCLB for the final word on his application in the near future, and if approved, he plans to have the patio up and running in time for the summer months.

The space slated for the patio already features a cement pad and two six-foot fences. The building's rear wall would be one more fence, and McClellan would build a fourth fence.

writer@comoxvalleyrecord.com