The cats, dogs and other homeless animals living at the Delta Community Animal Shelter will soon be getting new accommodations.
At Monday night's (Nov. 7) council meeting, CAO George Harvie announced he had concluded negotiations with FortisBC for a property located at the southwest corner of Tilbury and Hopcott roads for the construction of a new animal shelter.
The DCAS had been looking for a new home since learning the South Fraser Perimeter Road, a four-lane highway currently under construction that will connect Deltaport with major highways, will run past their current site at 7450 80th St.
Shelter staff say high traffic and the accompanying noise disturbs the animals.
The Corporation of Delta, which operates the shelter, has set aside funding for a new facility in this year's budget.
"Replacing the existing animal shelter has been a priority for Mayor and Council since the shelter, which was built in 1972, is outdated, too small and poorly located," states a press release from the corporation.
"The new shelter design is a significant upgrade, with a much larger building, animal runs, a welcoming foyer, and increased space for cats, dogs and other small animals."
Delta staff expect to present a report to council on Dec. 12 recommending the award of a construction contract for the new shelter. The report will include an artist's rendering of the new shelter and a map of the nearby walking trails.
Starting in January 2012, staff will update council monthly on the progress of construction and finances of the new shelter.