Image: Rob Baird
Kitsilano beach goers may soon be able to purchase alcohol from at Vancouver Beach Parks concessions. For many, cracking a beer or sipping wine while picnicking should be a natural part of beach enjoyment. The question of alcohol on Vancouver beaches is part of a larger survey the park board is conducting as it looks at revamping concessions. The Park Board has hired a consultant to develop a business strategy for its 12 seasonal concessions operated between April and October.
“If provided in a responsible manner, do you agree or disagree with the sale of alcoholic beverages at Vancouver Beach Parks concessions?” asks the online survey. (The survey is still live. So take the time to weigh in.)
B.C.’s Liquor Control Act prohibits the consumption of liquor in public places without a licence, but the act also allows municipalities to designate public beaches, parks and campgrounds as areas where liquor may be consumed.
People will also be able to offer their feedback in person over the May long weekend at several concessions, including at Second Beach, Third Beach, Kitsilano Beach and Spanish Banks East, at Stanley Park’s information booth and Lumberman’s Arch.
While the question of alcohol might get the most public attention, Vancouver Park Board Chair Sarah Kirby-Yung says the real focus of the survey was food and the aging buildings — not booze.
In fact most of the questions in the survey are about what kinds of foods people would like served at beachside concessions and what level of service they prefer — from fine dining to take-out. This could enable concessions to serve a greater variety of cuisines, including French, Italian, Chinese, Pan Asian, Japanese, Indian, and Mediterranean — all options in the survey’s list.
Based on the survey results, a new concession stand strategy is expected to go to the board for approval on June 27.
Last modified: May 19, 2016
