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Langford waiting on provincial approval for pot dispensary

Locations and license in B.C. government’s hands, Mayor says
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Despite reports suggesting a marijuana dispensary is opening on the West Shore at Belmont Market, Mayor Stew Young says there has been no approval by the province. (News staff) Despite reports suggesting a marijuana dispensary is opening on the West Shore, Mayor Stew Young says there has been no approval by the province. (News staff)

Rick Stiebel/News staff

Langford Mayor Stew Young was quick to nip any rumours about potential marijuana dispensaries coming to Langford in the bud.

Responding to reports circulating about the possibility of a dispensary in the Belmont Market development on Monday, Young said there has been no approval by the provincial government for any sites or licenses for government-licensed cannabis dispensaries in Langford.

“Any discussion on any company or any site is premature until the provincial government grants approval,” he said. “We are doing absolutely nothing until the province approves it, and there should be no discussion until that time.”

Langford did submit a Request For proposal in August, but hasn’t heard back from the government at this time.

Young reiterated that the city took steps to shut a dispensary down in Langford earlier this year because it was an illegal activity. “Now that’s it’s legal as of Oct. 19, we will take direction clearly from the government,” Young said. “We will work with the government just like we would on any other legal business.”

Allan Lingwood, chief compliance officer for The Original FARM cannabis dispensaries, said the company is actively identifying opportunities throughout the province, but cannot be specific regarding locations at this time. “We’d love to be an active member of B.C.’s cannabis community and cannabis culture and continue the momentum that’s brought us to where we are today,” Lingwood said. “We plan on opening two Victoria locations as soon as possible.”

The company’s Hillside location is currently undergoing renovations, he added.


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rick.stiebel@goldstreamgazette.com