An application for a 74-unit “glamping” campground has been put forward to the Town of Canmore, which is being met with concern by residents. The project, known as Miner’s Camp, is proposed east of Quarry Lake and would be built on 9.7 hectares of private land. The developer, Summit Projects, did acknowledge CTV’s requests for an interview, but we did not hear back by our deadline. The Town of Canmore says, “The property is located within the future development district, which lists ‘campground’ as a discretionary use.” Despite the town’s comments, residents in the area don’t want it built. “This development is proposing 74 ‘glamping’ units, which means 74 units with urinals and showers and septic tanks and a 24-7 administration building,” said Canmore resident Wendy Walker, who opposes the development. “That means at least 74 extra cars.” Walker has helped organize a petition opposing the development, which has garnered nearly 2,000 signatures. She also points to the proposed campground’s proximity to Quarry Lake, a popular spot for locals to hang out. “The Quarry Park and the Quarry Lake itself is one of Canmore’s most precious green spaces, and it’s already at capacity,” she said. Other residents share concerns over wildfire hazards and impact to animals in the area, along with added foot and vehicle traffic. “This campground is a source of ignition close to a neighbourhood, which is exactly what the town’s trying to avoid,” said Sue Van Evra, who has lived in Canmore since 1993. “I also think for the well-established neighbourhood, it just changes the reason people move to homesteads.” The proposal includes one open fire pit for use by visitors, with no open fire pits at the individual tent sites. Public input is being collected by the town until March 20. Around 400 comments have been collected so far.
