The Canna Cabana has won its appeal to become the third approved cannabis retail store for Cochrane.
On Dec. 21, the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board rendered its decision to overturn the rejection of their application in late November. The appeal board considered the appeal on Dec. 11 and issued its decision on Dec. 21.
The appeal board agreed the location of the store, #5 122-4th Ave, would not have a negative effect on the neighborhood or local businesses. With several empty units available for lease, it is also thought to potentially increase business diversity and draw additional customers to the area.
The company’s proposal was originally required to be turned down by the town’s planning department because it fell outside of the 150m setback from other approved cannabis stores. It is 122m from the nearest competitor and this was deemed an acceptable variance by the appeal board. None of the approved stores are within sight of each other.
There are a number of conditions that are attached to the approval, but the biggest stumbling block at this point is receiving a cannabis retail store licence from Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC). Currently, the commission has placed a hold on issuing further licences until it has a reliable supply to meet the demand of retail outlets.
No firm timeline has been provided on when further licences will be issued. It could occur within six months but the AGLC doesn’t discount the possibility of it taking up to 18 months.
Another appeal by a rejected application is scheduled to go before the appeal board in January.
Besides Canna Cabana, two other locations cleared the 21-day appeal window last week and both are already preparing for when they receive their AGLC licence. Plant Life will be opening shop on Bow Common and SpiritLeaf will be on 1st St. W.
Like their competitors, Canna Cabana, (High Tide Inc.) has numerous Alberta locations at various points of approval. They currently have two outlets open in Calgary.
Written by: Noel Edey
Source: Cochrane Now