Residents in Hudson’s Hope are expressing frustration as B.C. Hydro declines to sell structures from properties acquired during the construction of the Site C dam, structures they believe could be repurposed for the community. Nedra Forrester and her husband, Ed, reside on Dudley Drive overlooking the Peace River, where many properties remain unoccupied.
Forrester stated that individuals have been informed that they cannot purchase the structures and that they will be demolished along with the houses. She expressed disappointment in this decision, suggesting it reflects poorly on the environmental aspects of the Site C project.
Numerous properties were obtained or expropriated by B.C. Hydro due to their location within the reservoir impact zone created by the dam. Forrester expressed a willingness to assume the responsibility of relocating garages, sheds, and other structures that they believe hold value.
B.C. Hydro’s spokesperson, Bob Gammer, mentioned that nearly twenty homes were acquired due to project impacts, with some already demolished before the reservoir filling in 2024. Gammer acknowledged community concerns about the deteriorating state of some homes planned for demolition.
Gammer confirmed that nine additional properties not subject to expropriation will undergo demolition, although B.C. Hydro is aware of community interest in salvaging the buildings. The utility has previously sold items and structures from properties being demolished and will continue to do so where feasible and safe.
Moreover, B.C. Hydro operates a housing complex in Hudson’s Hope with apartments and townhomes for employee accommodation. Despite online complaints regarding beach access to the reservoir, Gammer clarified that there are no plans to create beaches post-reservoir filling.
Guy Armitage, a resident on Adams Street, shared his experience of residing within a potential riverbank erosion area due to the dam, which has caused uncertainty and stress in the community. He highlighted the slow and confusing expropriation process by B.C. Hydro, leaving residents in limbo and fearing further compensation offers.
Armitage emphasized the poor maintenance of acquired homes by B.C. Hydro, noting the wastage involved in their removal and the missed opportunity to utilize the properties and structures effectively.