The Gorge Pointe Pub will close at the end of the year with the land set to be redeveloped.
Abstract Developments, led by president and chief executive Mike Miller, said it’s contacting immediate neighbours and asking them what they would like to see built on the corner lot at 1075 Tillicum Rd.
Miller said the pub and liquor store will close, despite the company’s efforts to extend a lease with the current operators.
Abstract, which specializes in condominium and townhouse projects, said it has not made any formal applications to the Township of Esquimalt for redevelopment of the 0.59-acre high-profile lot, situated on the Gorge at Tillicum Narrows and the reversing rapids, across from Esquimalt Gorge Park and close to the Gorge Vale Golf Club.
“We’ve already heard from some people who are happy the pub is closing, others who want to keep it open,” said the company.
Immediate neighbours have received brochures for an online community consultation on May 19, when Miller said they can talk with the developer about potential plans.
Another consultation will follow with the broader neighbourhood, he said.
“It’s important we hear from the members of the immediate community in order to understand what is important to them as we move forward with our application,” said Miller. “This location along the Gorge waterway makes it an attractive site to both live and access nearby services.”
The site has a long history of pubs and hotels, according to author Glen Mofford. The first Gorge Hotel was opened in 1874 and another version was built in 1924, with a beer parlour added in 1938.
Abstract Developments is currently building the Bellewood Park residential project in Rockland.
