Edmonton supervised consumption site has permit revoked

A supervised consumption site in Edmonton has had its permit revoked, again.

In a statement to CityNews, the Boyle Street Community said, “Today, we received the disappointing news regarding our overdose prevention site, known as Wolf Den. This decision denies essential services for those we serve.”

“The critical support that overdose prevention sites provide is needed now more than ever. As we move forward, we will take the necessary time to consult with legal counsel and deliberate on our next steps.”

Adding, “Our commitment to exploring all possible avenues remains unwavering, ensuring that this essential service is available in our community.”

This is not the first time the site has had their permit revoked. Last year, Boyle Street Community Services lost their permit to start renovating their Strathcona Health Hub.

WATCH: Permit revoked for south Edmonton overdose prevention site

READ MORE:

• Neighbourhood group says ‘no’ to proposed overdose prevention site
• Edmonton community divided over new supervised consumption site

On Wednesday, The City of Edmonton released a 126-page document from their appeal board on the lengthy discussions that have been going for several months.

CityNews reached out to the City of Edmonton for a comment on the decision, and the City responded saying, “The Subdivision Appeal Board decision states that the Board is of the opinion that either further analysis or a variance is required for the proposed development to enhance the natural surveillance and security of the parking areas. As the Board felt that a variance was required, consultation would have also been required. Since no consultation was undertaken to support the variance, the Board chose to revoke the Development Permit.”

Adding, “If the applicant chooses to submit a new development permit for the same use on the same site, the City will determine the eligibility to accept a resubmission. For that to happen, the City would have to ensure the new application meets the requirements of the zoning bylaw. If the application does require a variance, one year would need to pass before the City can accept the application. “

Community members in Strathcona have also been voicing their concerns with the supervised consumption site.

-With files from Carly Robinson