Buddhist Institute proposing monastery for 1,400 nuns in eastern P.E.I.

The Great Wisdom Buddhist Institute (GWBI) is hoping to build a vast monastery complex on their property in Brudenell, P.E.I.

The institute has released a master plan available on the province's website, outlining a 10 year, multi-million dollar project proposal for a multi-building complex.

It's part of the growing Buddhist population in the eastern part of P.E.I. GWBI has had a facility onUiggRoad since 2012.

200,000 sq. ft.

The plan states the monastery would have space for1,400 nuns but the actual population of the complex would depend on enrolment.

The grounds would span more than 121 hectares, or300 acres north and south of BrudenellRoad in Kings County, with fourmain building clusters on the north side of the road, and twobuildings on the south side.

Included in the plans are teaching facilities, lecture halls, worship areas, dormitoriesand recreation facilities, that will coveran area of 200,000 sq.ft.

The grounds would also includegardens, a greenhouseand both private and public walking trails.

There would also bea parking lot built with 300 spaces and an additional 15 spaces for buses and RV's.

Majority of residents without vehicles

In the plan, GWBIsaid itplans tohave its own independent sewage system and that it's set aside10 acres for that purpose.

It also addressedtraffic concerns for the area, citing that the majority of residents atthe monastery would be without vehicles.

People who ownproperties nearby arelocated at least 450 metres from the closest new building on the complex.

Changes needed to zoning bylaws

The institute states in the planit's already met with government officials to outline the project and met with surrounding residents to address potential concerns.

Construction would be completed in five phases,with one of the halls planned for this year.

But the planalso saystown council would need to change zoning bylaws to allow this type of complex.

A community open house is scheduled for June 7 to discuss the environmental planning strategy for construction of the monastery.

The proposal has yet to receive approval.

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