168-unit seniors facility gets the thumbs up from Kelowna planners

Kelowna City Council is expected to approve the necessary permits to allow for a 168-unit apartment building geared towards seniors in the Glenmore area.

The last time council visited this project was in October 2024 when they approved the rezoning forward for 728 Valley Rd.

The developer wants to provide a building for seniors who are downsizing and don’t require full time care.

Planning staff say the six-storey building would have 17 studios, 100 one-bedroom units and 51 two-bedroom units.

The project is considered supportive housing so there would be concierge services, on-site security, amenity programming, housekeeping, dining options, home care and transportation services.

The developer’s original application said there would be lounges, game rooms and fitness and event spaces.

A total of 106 parking stalls would be provided for residents and staff.

Reduced parking is allowed due to the support housing designation, said a report headed to council next week.

There are some site constraints due to Brandt’s Creek and a 15 metre Riparian Management Area along Valley Road, which is under covenant, prohibiting any building or disturbance.

However, the building shape is expected to fit the site.

Council approved permits for a seven-storey retirement home in 2020.

The building was meant to complement the property next door, which is the Vineyards Lodge and serves as a “memory care facility.”

Although those 2020 permits expired years ago, the owner of the project has not changed but the scope has shifted a bit to be an independent seniors facility.

Kelowna council will review the project on May 26.