Centre Wellington has agreed to a pay-per-ride agreement for One Axe Pursuit’s zipline operation across the Irvine Gorge.
Following a report from CAO Andy Goldie on March 11, council approved the commercial operators access agreement for the company’s “pay-per-ride zipline trial operations” for May through October 2013.
In May 2012, council approved an agreement between One Axe Pursuits and the township for a trial operation of a pay-per-ride zipline operation.
The original intent was to have the operation up for the 2012 summer season.
However, one of the agreement requirements was that the company get approval from the Technical Safety Standards Association (TSSA) for such a ride. As there were no existing technical standards for the non-permanent pay-per-ride setup proposed, One Axe and the TSSA worked to determine the required standards.
The wooden takeoff and viewing platform is now in place behind the Elora Community Centre and the daily-installed cable system is ready to go. As a result, the operations have beeen approved by TSSA.
Unfortunately by the time that happened, the entire 2012 operation season had ended.
Given the time, effort and expense made by One Axe Pursuits and the TSSA, township staff would like to allow the operations on a trial basis during 2013. Staff is recommending the agreement for the operations be approved for May through October 2013.
Upon execution of the agreement, the operator will pay the township an administration fee of $250.
In addition, the operation will pay the township $2 per ride and will track and report in writing the number of riders per month.
The permit between One Axe, the township and the Grand River Conservation Authority allows exclusive use for this type of zipline operation on the land, while acknowledging the land is still public.
Last year when the item came before council, a report from Goldie and David Rushton noted the Centre Wellington Economic Development Advisory Committee and the manager of economic development were approached by the parks and recreation department regarding the opportunity to have a pay-per-ride zipline operation across Irvine Creek in Elora.
For several years, One Axe Pursuits has operated a one day package experience to individuals and companies.
Council’s endorsement came quickly.
Goldie explained a trial was ageed to because this is the first time One Axe Pursuits has attempted this type of venture.
At the end of the trial, a review will be done to look at whether charges should be per use or per season depending on the financial impact.
