West Vancouver sells public beach access to private buyer [Video]

Christopher Molineux lives just metres away from a public access path to West Vancouver’s Altamont Beach. He regularly carries his kayak down the path and even forages for berries along it.

“Many people walk down the hill and use it. We watch the fireworks down at the beach,” he told CBC News. “Beach accesses are very much what gives West Vancouver its character.”

But soon the century-old public path will become private property — a move made by the municipality to entice a prospective buyer to purchase adjacent district-owned property.

Residents like Molineux aren’t happy about it, saying the move effectively cuts them off from accessing a treasured portion of the beach by foot.

“The message is West Van is up for sale. If you have the money, then come talk to us because you can get what you want at the expense of the community,” said Molineux.