Old downtown McDonald’s building set for demolition

The McDonald’s location in downtown Kelowna used to provide plenty of smiles, but now it’s become a bit of an eyesore.

Abandoned for years, the building was finally purchased by the City of Kelowna for just over $2 million in May 2020 and now it’s finally set to come down.

Demolition on the old fast-food restaurant at 1746 Water St is now scheduled and the lot will be empty by the end of October.

“Demolishing the building is necessary as it’s fallen into disrepair from extended vacancy and due to proximity to the creek it doesn’t lend itself well to repurposing,” said Graham Hood, strategic land development manager.

“This property represents a unique opportunity for future redevelopment and ensuring it is in attractive condition for lot consolidation and future redevelopment options is beneficial to the City’s long-range financial and capital plans.”

While demolition won’t happen until late October, the removal of asbestos and lead will begin next week.

Throughout the process, crews will take the appropriate steps to protect Mill Creek, which is right behind the property.

A number of invasive elm trees will be removed from the property as well.

Hood says the purchase of the old McDonald’s property and the former Husky Station, located kitty corner at 380 Harvey Ave, gives the City plenty of exciting opportunities.

“A plan for lot consolidation and future redevelopment options that leverage the site’s prominence at the entrance to both Kelowna and the downtown core will be brought forward for Council’s consideration in the coming months,” he explained.

McDonald’s shut its doors at that location in 2007 and a lengthy lawsuit between the fast-food chain and the City of Kelowna ensued.