Banff hotel proposal draws concern over mountain views
Hearing before development appeal board about Banff Homestead Inn is underway
A proposal for a new three-storey hotel in downtown Banff is stirring up debate and concern about the town's legendary mountain views.
It is like putting a basketball player's foot into a ballet dancers shoe. The result doesn't look very comfortable.- Peter Poole
The proposal would see the 27-room Banff Homestead Inn demolished so a bigger, 63 room hotel could take its place. It's got people in Banff debating how high is too high.
The town's planning commission has granted the hotel developer, Fuji Starlight Express, a permit. But that decision is being challenged by some local businesses.
A two-day hearing before Banff's development appeal board is underway.
"I think a three-storey building isn't overly obtrusive," said Murray Dunn of Canmore, who isn't concerned about the proposal.
Peter Poole is head of a company called Arctos and Bird Management Ltd. that manages commercial properties, including a local hotel. He's arguing against the new development. He says it would block the mountain views that draw visitors to Banff.
"That's a major sight line in Banff. It should be retained," said Poole. "It is like putting a basketball player's foot into a ballet dancers shoe. The result doesn't look very comfortable."
The board may deliver a decision on the new hotel Friday, but could take longer.