A draft floor plan for the renovation of the Burns Lake Band's Gathering Place has now been completed.
The plans, drawn up by Zan Kelly of Boni Madisson Architects retain and improve the already existing gymnasium, the Little Angels Day care and offices at the Gathering Place. A portion of the building west of Little Angels Day care is also set to be demolished.
The new Gathering Place will house updated and renovated offices, meeting rooms and a reception area.
In addition, there will be an elder's room, studio space for arts and culture activities, a multipurpose space and a commercial kitchen.
Representatives from the Burns Lake Band, the Village of Burns Lake, Lakes District Secondary School, Community Futures Nadina, Lakes Economic Development Association and the College of New Caledonia recently participated in a Union of British Columbia Municipalities Community to Community Forum program.
Forum participants reviewed the proposed draft floor plan and discussed the future development of the Gathering Place.
Participants also established a founding board of directors for the project, as well as a number of sub-committees for the topics of building ownership, capital, programming and operations, as well as an advisory group.
Burns Lake Band Chief Albert Gerow said, "We want to create a facility that is welcoming to the entire community, from the children attending the Little Angels Day care to our many elders. Of particular importance will be a wide array of recreational, educational and cultural activities for the young people of the area. We welcome the community's involvement in designing a great facility and will be holding meetings early in the new year to let everyone see the preliminary plans and to seek ideas."
Village of Burns Lake Mayor Luke Strimbold said, "The Village of Burns Lake looks forward to the construction of a multi use community centre. The proposed project will be of great benefit to all community members, young and old alike and the redeveloped Gathering Place will be a key part in creating a healthier, safer and more resilient community."