Exhibition centre, water park broached for second phase of TC Ranch

NEWS/ CITY — An exhibition centre and a destination water park are among the possible additions to the Tournament Capital Ranch lands north of Rayleigh.

They’re among the options to be considered by City council in the next few months on how the remaining land at the TC Ranch will be used.

The City hasn’t released details of the water park idea but it’s on the list along with the multi-purpose exhibition centre, a trade show and event facility, public trail along the North Thompson River including a park and picnic area, and agricultural production area.

The new facility or facilities would be added to the lands on which the slo-pitch and rugby fields were constructed in 2011. Part of that project involved partnering with the provincial government for the remediation of the soil to return it to agricultural production status.

The new additions would be the second phase of the TC ranch. The City’s Agriculture Area Plan identifies using a portion of the Tournament Capital Ranch lands to create an “Agricultural Centre of Excellence” to support sustainable farming.

“The Tournament Capital Ranch is well on its way to becoming a signature tourist attraction highlighting recreation, sport, agriculture and business opportunities,” said Coun. Nelly Dever, who sits on the City’s agriculture committee.

The City would have to apply to the Agricultural Land Commission to approve changes in land use.

City Hall will reach out to the public for feedback through open houses, a survey and the City’s website:

Website: http://www.kamloops.ca/tcr.

Farmers Markets: City staff will be at the downtown Farmers Market on Wednesday, Aug. 6 and Saturday, Aug. 9.

Community Open Houses: City staff will host two open houses on Thursday, Aug. 14.

• Tournament Capital Centre from 12 to 3 p.m.

• Tournament Capital Ranch from 5 to 7 p.m. in the plaza area.

Community Survey: Available in hard copy at the Farmers Market, open houses and online at http://www.kamloops.ca/tcr.