The South Cariboo Meat Co-op (SCMC) board of directors has decided on a different location for its new Class B provincially licensed red-meat abattoir.
SCMC manager Howie McMillan says they looked for a new location after investigations into all related building issues identified "a serious challenge" around the potential water supply at the initial site on Exeter-McKinley Road.
"With the enthusiastic and generous support of 100 Mile Ranch Ltd., the board will enter into a lease-to-purchase agreement for a section of land bordering Canim-Hendrix Lake Road and the old Forest Grove Road."
While there was evidence pointing to both the existence of water and the lack of it at the original proposed site, McMillan says the new location offers the back-up option of municipal water supply if the planned well drilling doesn't pan out.
"We have a risk-free scenario, as opposed to a fairly risky scenario."
The property is close to town and features "great" road access, he explains, while remaining well buffered from any other development.
The site is about a kilometre from Highway 97 on the south side of Canim-Hendrix Lake Road.
A geotechnical survey will be performed at the new site as soon as it can be arranged and site preparations will begin shortly afterward, he says, adding it isn't yet known how many weeks delay will be involved.
"We're hoping the impact will be minimal, but it will delay the project somewhat."
McMillan adds he doesn't anticipate any problems with the required permits and approvals from the District of 100 Mile House, since council has already voiced its support for the new location.
Anyone wanting further information about the new red-meat abattoir is encouraged to contact McMillan at 250-395-6775 or e-mail to info@southcariboomeat.coop, or talk to any of the SCMC directors.