The show can go on at Mirror’s Whistle Stop Café. Lacombe County’s municipal planning commission in Canada has approved a development permit for a drive-in theatre and a nine-site campground at the café, owned by Chris Scott.
Located just east of Mirror on Highway 21, this dual-purpose site represents a significant milestone for the outdoor hospitality industry, merging entertainment and accommodation to attract a diverse clientele.
The campground, originally developed without a permit in 2013, includes stalls serviced with power and water, with a laundry facility under construction. Since purchasing the property in 2021, Scott has been working closely with planning staff to ensure compliance, culminating in the recent approval.
The drive-in theatre, featuring a temporary screen next to the café, required additional scrutiny. According to an article by Lacombe Express, Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors reviewed the application and stipulated that the screen be oriented away from Highway 21 to prevent glare and distraction for drivers. Additionally, a roadside development permit is needed for the drive-in.
Scott explained to the planning commission, comprising county council members, that he had previously begun the process of obtaining a roadside development permit but paused when the department indicated no concerns due to the screen’s distance from the highway. “I will talk to them again to ensure all necessary approvals are lined up,” Scott assured.
Moreover, the county emphasized the importance of numbering the campground stalls for identification by emergency services. “It’s really important that these sites be numbered for health reasons and fire reasons and everything else,” stated county Reeve Barb Shepherd.
This development highlights the innovative integration of recreational facilities, enhancing visitor experience and boosting local tourism. By combining a drive-in theatre with a campground, the Whistle Stop Café is poised to attract families, movie enthusiasts, and campers, setting a new standard in the campground industry.
This fusion of amenities not only offers unique experiences but also stimulates economic growth, supporting local businesses and contributing to the community’s prosperity.
As Scott continues to align all necessary permits, this project underscores the importance of meticulous planning and regulatory adherence in developing successful and sustainable outdoor hospitality venues.
Featured image by The Whistle Stop via whistlestoptruckstop.ca