Plans for anOcean Discovery Centre inNanaimo, Vancouver Island, have moved a step closer.
Following a presentation of the project's business plan, the City of Nanaimo have committed to investigate the feasibility of using a locationon the publicly owned waterfront for the development."world class attraction of epicproportion"Nanaimo Deep Discovery Association are proposing to create a$50-million "world class attraction of epicproportion" which will attract tourists and regenerate the local area.
The vision for theOcean Discovery Centre is: “An inspiring collection of interactive displays, robotics, submersibles and IMAX experiences showcasing the history, the present, and revealing the future of ocean ecology & sustainable technologies.”
The business plan forecasts70,000 visitors a year, generating an estimated $171 million throughout the local economy.
$45 million of the funding needed for the three year development would need to come from the provincial and federal governments, together with a ‘mortgage or loan free’ land lease from the city for the 1,000sqm site.
Current proposals for the centre includetouch tank aquariums, a virtual reality shark cage thrill attraction and a $10-million moving theatre similar to Soar over Canada.
Images:Nanaimo Deep Discovery Association
Ocean Discovery Centre proponents eye Nanaimo’s publicly owned waterfront - Nanaimo News Bulletin
David Rosenberg, Vice President of Guest Experience
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