Pemberton GEMS Private School Press Release
Ravens Crest Developments Ltd has received conditional approval from the Agricultural Land Commission for the proposed independent school at Ravens Crest. A letter dated May 29, 2009 from the ALC contains a detailed resolution advising that the application for non‐farm use for an independent boarding school be allowed with conditions.
"I feel the commission showed a balanced approach in arriving at this decision. The conditions include; appropriate access, site plan control, improvements to the agricultural capability both on the site and in other areas of the valley, strict buffering and farm conflict minimization.” said Cam McIvor of Ravens Crest. “The conditions show that the commission can uphold their objectives for the ALR and integrate this with the needs of the Pemberton Valley communities. “ The commission also expresses their desire for the proposed agricultural curriculum to offer opportunities to First Nations youth through access and participation in programs. GEMS Education has been informed of the decision and is currently working on preliminary designs in order to advance the project.
"I am very excited for GEMS, Ravens Crest and Pemberton to get this approval.” said Colin Johnson of Ravens Crest. “The educational opportunity for the children and families of Pemberton and Whistler is profound".
Ravens Crest would like to acknowledge the support of The SLRD Board and The Village of Pemberton during the application process and especially Mayor Sturdy whom The Commission entions specifically in its letter for showing support and providing clarification. m