A high-profile corner lot in View Royal is the focus of a mixed-use residential and retail development effort that may include a boutique grocery store.

 

 

A proposal represented by Vancouver-based Ankenman Marchand Architects on behalf of an unnamed real-estate development firm includes what proponents hope will be a Red Barn Market, along with over 50 condominiums within a six-storey complex.

 

Preliminary plans identify the mixed-use building as rising on a parcel currently occupied by Namaste Indian Restaurant at 298 Island Highway and Helmcken Road. The popular dining spot may be better known to Victorians as the former Amrikko’s Indian cuisine diner, which ten years ago overtook operations from the long-time View Royal landmark Sammy’s Chinese Food.

 

The decision to pursue discussions with Red Barn Market was bourne out of a desire to create a retail draw for the surrounding area, and meet the needs of the nearby population.

 

“In selecting a commercial user, we wanted to seek out a tenant that provides a convenience offering for both the residents for the project, as well as the community at large,” a report submitted to View Royal council by Ankenman Marchard Architects states. “To that end, our Client has been in discussions with Red Barn Market who have expressed a strong interest in this location and the size of the retail component being offered. If we are successful in soliciting a small boutique grocery retailer to this site, we believe it will provide all the active streetscape opportunities that are envisaged for this important site.”

 

The planning document intimates the concept for the project is in its infancy and is apt to undergo changes based on community feedback and direction from the municipality.

 

Should the current or an altered vision for the land receive approvals, the architectural firm states that their client “intends on purchasing other sites along this corridor, allowing everyone to initiate a larger urban design exercise that will optimally provide positive change to the View Royal streetscape and community.”

 

View Royal’s development landscape has seen several condominium projects emerge since 2019, including the recently completed Maija London project at 280 Island Highway, and The Glenn, which is under construction off Admirals Road along Glentana Road. Two affordable rental buildings are also underway in the municipality at the entrance to Thetis Lake Regional Park. The buildings are expected to be completed later this year. C

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