The Cowichan Valley Regional District is seeking interest from the local business community in providing materials and/or services to assist in constructing a new stage and bandshell for outdoor entertainment at the Cobble Hill Common.
Over the years, the CVRD has transformed what was historically a provincial Ministry of Transportation and Transit maintenance yard into a vibrant community park for the Cobble Hill electoral area.
This transformation allowed for the expansion of the long-standing Cobble Hill Agricultural Fair, as well as for establishment of Music In The Park, an annual summer series put on by the Cobble Hill Events Society.
In support of the growing popularity and interest for outdoor performances at the Cobble Hill Common, the CVRD is moving forward with the design and construction of a covered outdoor performance stage and bandshell.
The new stage and bandshell will be constructed to reflect the historic, rural character of Cobble Hill, while incorporating functional and aesthetic elements suitable for year-round use.
The CVRD wants the structure to be an approximately 24-foot by 24-foot raised stage platform with a concrete foundation; a wood post-and-beam open structure with a metal roof; a front curved stage and/or roofline to enhance visual appeal and acoustic projection; and for it to have accessibility considerations, including a ramp for performer/equipment access; and the potential for future electrical service, lighting and outlet connections integrated into the structure.
The CVRD is opening an Expression of Interest process to allow for the donation of materials and/or professional construction services that can potentially support the successful design/build proponent.
In addition to donated services and materials, the Shawnigan Cobble Hill Farmers Institute and Agricultural Society will be fundraising cash donations from those who want to financially support the new community amenity.
“The Common is really the heart of Cobble Hill Village and this project, which has been partially funded through the Community Works Fund, will ensure that we can continue to grow our community spirit and collective wellness through events like Music In The Park and many other events that can make use of the bandshell throughout the year,” said Mike Wilson, the CVRD’s director for Cobble Hill.
“Great generosity amongst our residents and business community has been demonstrated many times in the past, the most recent being the renovations and lighting at the Cobble Hill Cenotaph, and it is my belief that this will be demonstrated once again. I hope we will receive some worthy Expressions of Interest offers, as well as financial donations through the Farmer’s Institute to help offset the cost of building this new hub for outdoor performing arts.”
Anyone interested in donating materials or professional services can complete the Contribution Form on the CVRD website and submit it through the CVRD Bonfire portal, or by email to [email protected].
To make a financial donation to the SCHFIAS, contact Roy Davies, vice president of SCHFIAS, at [email protected].
