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Does Kelowna really need another drive-thru restaurant?
That’s the question Coun. Ryan Donn asked as council was asked to approve a new Tim Hortons on Highway 97 near Leckie Road.
The restaurant is being built on what is currently a portion of the Canadian Tire parking lot between the gas bar and Kanata Hotel.
Donn said he is concerned council is allowing more drive-thru’s in areas that he says are walkable.
“I’m reluctant to support drive-thru’s in an area that is more walkable,” he said.
“And, there are examples of other Tim Hortons that don’t have that,” citing the restaurant in Harvey across from Orchard Plaza.
“I think it’s a significant portion of their business is done through drive-thru’s these days.”
The new restaurant does front the highway, and would be accessed from the highway corridor.
Staff indicated the company is working with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to ensure all access requirements are met.
And, while staff stated they are trying to move away from drive-thru’s in the downtown area, those in close proximity to the highway do undergo a lengthy review process from both the city and MoTI.
Donn, who voted against the proposal, says he believes council needs to have a policy discussion around drive-thru restaurants.
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