New land-use definition brewing at City Hall
Posted Apr 30, 2016 2:52 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
A report heading to city council on Monday could open the beer flood gates in Calgary.
The report recommends a new land-use definition, brewery, winery and distillery, allowing manufacturers to open and operate in most commercial and industrial zones.
General Manager of Calgary Brewery Tours, Brad McCarty, says this will allow breweries to be more visible in walkable spaces, such as 17th Avenue SW.
“If we compare ourselves to Vancouver, or even Portland, they easily have anywhere from 80 to 100 breweries within and around the city,” he said. “Ourselves, we’re going to have about 12 next year. So it kind of gives you an idea of what we could grow in to.”
He adds, confusing regulations have led to some tough years for the industry, but this is another sign that the city and province is serious about reform.
“This also goes towards wineries and also distilleries, which is great. That means we’re going to have a lot more diversity between crafts – it’s going to be spirits, it’s going to be beer, it’s going to be mead. It’s changed a lot in a very short period of time.”
McCarty also says more competition will help cultivate creativity, and bring a craft beer scene everyone will love.
