A Municipal Insurance Association (MIA) review is calling the driftwood hut that’s been a fixture in Davis Bay for years a high risk.
“It may not be structurally sound, which could lead to a collapse and serious injuries,” the MIA said in a report to the District of Sechelt. “To prevent injuries associated with a collapse or falling driftwood, we recommend that the structure be removed or properly secured by a qualified contractor to ensure structural integrity.”
The MIA also noted one of the trees along the Davis Bay Seawalk is causing the pavement to heave and buckle, creating a hazard for cyclists and pedestrians. It’s also recommending railings on the beach side of the walkway, “to prevent persons from falling over the edge, injuries and the associated liability.”
There was no recommendation from a Feb. 28 District of Sechelt committee meeting on the hut or the other Davis Bay concerns, but district staff said they would work with the Ministry of Transportation (MOTI) – the owners of the property – and the person they believe built the hut.
“The [driftwood] structure has been taken down by staff in the past but was reconstructed within days of its dismantling,” according to the staff report. “Staff also has a good idea of who is constructing the structure. Staff will be meeting with them in hopes of coming to some agreement.”
On the question of the railing, the report said there are several concerns, including cost, the possibility of damage from storms and obstruction of the view.
“Staff will be contacting MOTI to see if there is a possibility of shifting the road to the east to increase the width of the walkway… It is the intent of staff to make the walkway a pedestrian walking path only. The appropriate signage and surface markings will be installed, prohibiting cycling on the walkway. This will eliminate pedestrian/cyclists conflicts and may reduce the possibility of someone falling off the edge of the walkway.”
