R.K. Heli-ski Petition Dismissed
November 23, 2005
Invermere, B.C. - The Supreme Court of British Columbia has dismissed R.K. Heli-ski's petition to overturn the Jumbo Glacier Resort project's Environmental Assessment Certificate (EA Certificate) and has awarded costs to the respondents, including Glacier Resorts Ltd., the proponent of Jumbo Glacier Resort.
The Honourable Mr. Justice Melnick issued his judgment in Cranbrook, B.C. today noting that, "R.K. has failed to demonstrate to me that it was denied natural justice either because of failure to provide it with an opportunity to be fully and properly heard in a meaningful way or because a reasonable person would apprehend bias on the part of the EAO [Environmental Assessment Office], Sierra, or the Ministers."
"This project has undergone the longest and most comprehensive review of any project of its kind in the history of B.C. - we are not surprised that the petition has been dismissed" says Grant Costello, Vice-President of Glacier Resorts Ltd. in Invermere, B.C. He adds, "We hope that R.K. will accept this decision as final; we strongly believe that the creation of a world-class tourism destination will benefit their business and as we have noted in the past, we are willing to work with them should they wish to take the opportunity."
"We will continue to offer to build a heli-ski lodge in the upper Jumbo Valley. Heli-skiing is an important component of a modern ski resort and we are looking forward to providing future resort visitors with this incredible experience," explains Costello.
Jumbo Glacier Resort is a planned year-round ski resort in the heart of the Purcell Mountains 35 kilometres from Panorama, B.C. At buildout, the quality resort will have 5,500 visitor beds, which is about the size of Panorama. It will offer access to 3,400 meter (11,150 feet) high glaciers for year-round skiing and sightseeing. It will feature a 100% natural snow winter vertical drop of 1,700 meters (5,500 feet), and a mid-summer vertical drop of up to 700 meters (2,300 feet). Its year-round glacier access and skiing will be unique in North America.
The project has received land-use and environmental approval and is now undergoing the final Master Plan review process. "We continue to look forward to a prompt project start," adds Costello.
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