300-boat marina planned for Joussard

Chris Clegg
South Peace News

A 300-boat marina and adjoining recreational campground is being planned for Joussard by one of the region’s most successful entrepreneurs. R.J. and Linda Williscroft are working on the multi-million project, which is expected to attract anywhere from 6,000 to 10,000 tourists to Joussard at the height of the tourist season, Linda Williscroft told the M.D. of Big Lakes council at its March 26 meeting. The Williscrofts were successful in having their land rezoned to Joussard Hamlet Commercial Recreation from Joussard Urban Reserve. Council gave second and third reading to the bylaw at the meeting. The rezoning is the first of many hurdles the Williscrofts will need to overcome to make the resort a reality. Approval from the federal government for marina construction and development permits will all be part of the process. Linda Williscroft says they have spent months on the plan, which is still in preliminary stages. Their land is located along the shores of the lake between the central core of the hamlet and Key Cove Estates along Peace River Ave. “It’s a long-term plan,” she told council. “A 300-boat marina with stores and restaurants, whatever it takes to support the lot rentals we’re opening to the public.” R.J. Williscroft has already surveyed the land and is working with engineers to put the plan on paper. Two people attended the M.D. meeting. Both favoured the proposal. “I encourage what Ron and Linda are doing,” says Marc Goutier. “I’m all for it.” Shane Knutson of Red Sky Grove, a recreation project in Joussard’s west end, did not speak but issued a short note indicating he favoured the project. He says they have a database of over 500 people who may purchase their lots. He adds the area provides excellent fishing and boating making it a tourist destination for decades to come. Community development officer Pat Olansky says she did not receive any submissions in favour or against. Linda Williscroft says the feedback they have received is all favourable. “The feedback from the people we’ve got has been very positive,” she says. In fact, Joussard residents have already asked about the possibility of getting jobs at the resort. “It’s very exciting for our area,” says Linda Williscroft. “We need economic development and I think the lake will bring it.”

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