Media Release |
May 14, 2004
New Photographic Evidence from UBC Reveals Wreck Beach Privacy
is Protected
New sightline photos were released today to The University
of British Columbia Board of Governors, which confirm that
the recently approved new student housing building will not
encroach on the privacy of Wreck Beach.
The project will house more than 600 students and is part
of a proposed complex, which will create badly needed accommodation
for 2,000 students. Some bathers who frequent a nearby clothing
optional beach, which is about 250 metres away and down a
tree-lined cliff side, are opposed to the project.
"We have said that we will not encroach on the privacy
of the beach and these photos are proof that the building
will not be visible from the beach at high tide nor will the
beach and the bathers be visible even from the top floor of
this approved residence," said Dennis Pavlich, UBC's
Vice President of External Affairs.
The photos show a balloon at the top of the tree line that
is visible from the beach. The balloon is at 72 metres, more
than 20 metres higher than the approved building. This demonstrates
the tree cover ensures that the first tower to be approved
cannot be seen from the beach.
"By the time we are ready to begin construction on the
other towers in a couple of years the tree tops obscuring
the view will be even higher and fuller," said Pavlich.
The Board of Governors was also told today that geotechnical
studies confirm the building meets all stability standards.
They also learned that UBC's consultant determined that the
building poses no flight hazards for large birds. Design steps
are being taken to ensure that small birds will not strike
the lower floors.
"We have always been sympathetic to the opinions of
the bathers," said Pavlich. "But the important thing
to remember here is that this will create 2,000 housing units
for students who desperately need them. And we will not encroach
on anyone's privacy in the process."
Sightline Photos
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