Banff hotel proposal draws concern over mountain views

A proposal for a new three-storey hotel in downtown Banff is stirring up debate and concern about the town's legendary mountain views.

It is like putting a basketball player's foot into a ballet dancers shoe. The result doesn't look very comfortable.- PeterPoole

The proposal would see the 27-room Banff Homestead Inn demolished so a bigger, 63 room hotel could take its place. It's got people in Banff debating how high is too high.

The town's planning commission has granted the hotel developer, Fuji Starlight Express, a permit. But that decision is being challenged by some local businesses.

A two-day hearing before Banff's development appeal board is underway.

"I think athree-storeybuilding isn't overly obtrusive," said MurrayDunnofCanmore, who isn't concerned about theproposal.

Peter Poole ishead of a company called Arctos and Bird Management Ltd. that manages commercial properties, including a local hotel.He's arguing against the new development. He says it would block the mountain views that draw visitors to Banff.

"That's a major sightline in Banff. It should be retained," said Poole."It is like putting a basketball player's foot into a ballet dancers shoe. The result doesn't look very comfortable."

The board may deliver a decision on the new hotel Friday, but could take longer.