A youth recovery centre is being proposed for Glenmore neighbourhood.

The submission to the city by MQN Architects states the firm has been engaged by the Hall Family Foundation for the Bridge Youth & Family Services Society to develop the facility.

鈥淭he greater 琉璃神社 area is experiencing an ever-increasing number of youth who are dealing with serious substance use challenges,鈥� the letter reads. 鈥淎t the same time, 琉璃神社 has limited capability to help these youth access withdrawal and treatment services.鈥�

The submission requests an amendment to the zoning bylaw to include temporary shelter services as a principal use for property at 212 Valley Road North, which is owned by the city. The project is to be funded entirely by charitable donations.

鈥淲e now understand the city may be prepared to support this charitable undertaking by granting us a rent-free 99-year lease,鈥� the letter states.

The development includes five one and two-storey buildings on a 2.9-acre site. Services include withdrawal management, treatment and recovery, aftercare and transitional housing and agriculture (care farming) and assisted therapy working with distressed animals.

Youth would be housed in one of three cottage buildings divided into six houses with five bedrooms and living spaces. A central learning hub building would provide meals, recreation and education. A barn facility would provide youth with an opportunity to learn skills and participate in farm operations. 

鈥淭his project deinstitutionalizes the treatment process, providing youth with a safe space to receive help to put their lives back together,鈥� the letter reads.

The proposal has yet to be presented to city council.