PUBLIC LANDS -- The controversial Jumbo Glacier resort in the Purcell Mountains near Invermere, British Columbia, is in a holding pattern after its environmental certificate expired on the weekend, but resort officials say they’re still on track to open the day lodge and a lift by next winter, the Calgary Herald reports .
The $1-billion ski resort’s environmental certificate — which has been in place for 10 years — expired last week.
No additional construction will take place at the site until First Nations and other stakeholders are consulted and until B.C. Minister of Environment Mary Polack rules on whether the resort has “substantially started” the project.
Resort plans call for construction of 5,500 condos and up to 23 ski lifts.
The upscale resort has divided the community between those who want a boon to local business and others who fear destruction of the pristine wilderness and grizzly bear habitat.
