Big White Project Review

NEW – Update to the 2020 Draft Master Plan (November, 2025)

In June 2025, Big White informed the Province that it would no longer pursue expansion beyond its existing Controlled Recreation Area. Instead, the resort is focusing on enhancing year-round experiences within its current boundaries. The Update to the 2020 Draft Master Plan presents this revised vision for the future of Big White. Supporting appendices—including an updated environmental review and various management plans—are forthcoming and will be uploaded here as they become available

Key Highlights & Changes in the Updated 2020 Draft Master Plan

• Proposed golf course area been removed
• Proposed recreational development areas within the existing Controlled Recreation Area (excluding golf) have been retained.
• All proposed development outside of the existing Controlled Recreation Area has been removed.
• The proposed bed units remain the same and proposed residential development pods have been densified (ie. smaller lot sizes), reducing the footprint of residential development while maintaining ski in and ski out.
• Proposed phasing for development within the CRA remains largely the same:
  • Phase 1 focuses on the Sapphire, Blackforest & Backcountry trails & lifts and Lara’s base.
  • Phase 2 includes the Ridge Base, Lower Village and Gem Lake.

Official Community Plan

Please note: The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary has engaged a consultant to review the Big White Official Community Plan (OCP), originally adopted in 2001 and now due for an update. This review is taking place alongside the Big White Major Project Review.

It’s important to understand that the Resort Master Plan and the OCP are separate documents with distinct roles:

• The Resort Master Plan is developed by Big White to guide phased development within the Controlled Recreation Area; development is implemented as per the Master Development Agreement (contract), which is administered by the Province.
• The Official Community Plan is a legal document that provides direction for future development, including housing needs, climate action, guidance for changes in zoning, and development permit requirements.

While separate, it is important that these plans are aligned to ensure resort development supports broader community goals—such as housing, transportation, and environmental stewardship and that land use designations and zoning support the timely investment and phased development at the resort as per the approved Master Plan. This coordination promotes a more integrated and sustainable approach to growth for both residents and visitors.

For more information on the OCP review, visit: RDKB’s Big White OCP Review