Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) has made a significant addition to their business portfolio with the successful completion of The Osprey Nest, a modern multi-purpose building on IR6 with views of Williams Lake. On the top floor, WLFN has four fully-furnished lofts that are occupied full-time by medical professionals. The ground floor is home to Osprey Nest Restaurant, offering all-day breakfast and elevated dinner options for dining in and espresso beverages and baked treats for takeout.
“This innovative project demonstrates our ongoing commitment of renewed investment within WLFN reserve lands, the City of Williams Lake, and the greater Cariboo Regional District,” said Chief Willie Sellars, WLFN. “The Osprey Nest is yet another exciting example of the Williams Lake First Nation taking additional steps along our economic development journey.”
The creation of four new rental lofts supports the broader community by providing comfortable housing for temporary medical professionals who are stationed in Williams Lake. This results in increased capacity for medical services in the area for residents and strengthened relationships for WLFN with the Province of BC and Interior Health.
The Osprey Nest Social House and Eatery also serves the community through the provision of carefully crafted cultural meals, coffee, and treats in a trendy and warm environment. Additionally, the restaurant creates new employment opportunities for local residents.
The Osprey Nest joins other WLFN enterprises located on IR6, including the Sugar Cane Cannabis farm-to-gate micro-cultivation facility and Unity Cannabis.
Northern Development invested $300,000 into this project through a Economic Infrastructure grant in 2022. WLFN accessed the maximum amount available through the funding stream, which focuses on supporting projects of regional and local significance that contribute to economic growth and stronger communities. For projects that upgrade or repair an existing facility, the maximum grant amount is $100,000 to a maximum of 70% of the eligible project costs.
