A trio of large kilns which produced lime from the limestone boulders which had slid down during the Frank Slide. waymarking.com photo
Nicholas L. M. Allen
Feb 14, 2024
The site, currently hosting the remnants of three kilns, is being considered for a potential private-public development that could include a distillery, an amphitheater, or serve as a staging ground for tourist operations such as bike and hiking tours.
Bruce Nimmo, a seasoned developer with decades of experience, has initiated a preliminary exploration of a 12-acre site in Hillcrest known as Lime City.
The site, currently hosting the remnants of three kilns, is being considered for a potential private-public development that could include a distillery, an amphitheater, or serve as a staging ground for tourist operations such as bike and hiking tours.
In an interview, Nimmo explained the motivation behind the project, stating, “I’ve been involved in development for better than two decades now, and it’s just a great site out there. You drive past the Leitch Collieries, and you can see the commemoration that’s happened there. It’s just maybe an opportunity to add to the community.”
The preliminary nature of the exploration emphasizes the need for careful consideration and collaboration with various stakeholders.
Nimmo highlighted the importance of discussions with the province to identify and protect the architectural and historical attributes of the site, while also working towards aligning commercial terms.
When asked about major steps moving forward, Nimmo acknowledged that while he is hopeful, it’s possible that stakeholders’ needs may not align. The initial steps include ongoing discussions with the province and addressing architectural and historical considerations.
Heritage Crowsnest, a key stakeholder, has been actively involved, mentoring Nimmo through the process and contributing to the incorporation of historical elements into the project. Nimmo expressed gratitude for their support and understanding of working with historical sites.
As for the timeline, Nimmo revealed that planning is already underway, with an architect engaged to propose preliminary ideas. While 2025 might be optimistic, Nimmo hopes to see construction on the ground by the spring of 2026, bringing the project to fruition.
In response to a question about the most exciting prospect of the process, Nimmo expressed enthusiasm for bringing together different people to build consensus, contribute to the community, and create an economically viable venture.
In a concluding note, Nimmo thanked the Council for their unanimous support, noting that they reviewed the potential development a few weeks ago and passed a motion to explore its possibilities.
He emphasized the importance of acknowledging their backing in the community initiative.