WEST Vancouver's director of planning, Bob Sokol, is undoubtedly correct when he says there is no silver bullet out there that will magically transform Ambleside with one shot into a pedestrian-friendly, local-business-supporting destination.
Clearly "Ambleside Activation" is a process already begun, but Monday's council endorsement is but a small step to achieving hoped-for transformation.
To some, it would appear that the Grosvenor redevelopment proposal for the 1300-block of Marine Drive would be key to bringing desired change.
To others, the proposed massing is anathema and the price too high for the promised rewards.
But there are many strings to the bow of Ambleside Activation and it will be important to evaluate them collectively, not judge them in isolation.
Food carts and or trucks might enhance a seaside stroll for visitors, but will they - and possibly more restaurants - take customers from existing businesses that have struggled for years to survive? Perhaps it will be possible to offer existing restaurants first choice of the "moveable" business licences?
But whether it is waterfront restaurants, funky food trucks, a permanent farmers' market, a visual arts centre or just the view, one overarching challenge must be met if more visitors and shoppers are to be welcomed.
Parking is paramount. And unless it is a focus from the beginning such that short-and medium-term parking is easy to find, it won't matter how Ambleside is activated.
