A render of the OceanEXP, previously known as the Nanaimo Ocean Discovery Centre. (render/Checkwitch Poiron Architects Inc.)

By Spencer Sterritt

ocean life

Marine education centre proponents plead for Nanaimo council’s support

Jul 28, 2020 | 5:22 AM

NANAIMO — An ocean education centre idea in Nanaimo has a different look compared to presentations to Nanaimo councillors in the past.

Lorne Hildebrand, who’s spoken numerous times about the project now known as Canada’s Centre for Ocean Exploration, told councillors the project is now at a crossroads.

Previous designs of elevators or submerged viewing areas off the coast of Nanaimo were scrapped, in favour of a fully digital experience featuring screens showing videos of aquatic life and interactive exhibits.

Hildebrand said cloudy visibility in the water and high costs forced them to redesign the project.

“We’ve changed based on what our experts are telling us is buildable and maintainable. The only condition we think is really important is it needs to be on the water somewhere.”

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High-profile waterfront land at 1 Port Dr. was previously earmarked for the development.

Hildebrand now said they’re looking at land from a different source and negotiations should be underway in the coming weeks.

A City-funded study, which was asked for after Hildebrand previously told past councillors they wouldn’t ask for any City money, was described as “old news.”

Hildebrand claimed the Province had told the association behind the project $2 million in seed money wouldn’t be provided until the City of Nanaimo made the project a priority.

Councillors voted in favour of a letter saying the Canada Centre for Ocean Exploration was supported by council and was aligned with their strategic priorities.

Coun. Sheryl Armstrong voted in favour of the letter and expanding on the pristine nature of Nanaimo’s ocean surroundings.

“I could see it as driving people here, which will help economically. I believe the project is very tangible and I think it could be very exciting.”

While she liked the concept, Coun. Erin Hemmens wouldn’t vote in favour of supporting the project further.

“No community member has ever discussed this with me in the way of ‘This is something I want.'”

She and Coun. Tyler Brown were the only two opposed.

Brown said he thought the project was wonderful but he struggled with supporting it knowing a $2 million financial request to the province would be made to get it up and running.

“I have to think what our community needs when it comes to millions of dollars asked (from the province) is detox, treatment and housing. To me, that outweighs any other economic consideration it would bring.”

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @SpencerSterritt