The 30-acre nature site has always been there for our community, and it should stay that way: Linda Annis
Surrey, B.C. (September 27, 2026): Surrey First councillor and candidate for mayor Linda Annis says the 30-acre Rosemary Heights retreat lands overlooking the Nicomekl River should remain green and be part of the city’s growing park system. Annis has opposed development proposals for the site.
“Put together by the Catholic Archdiocese 30 years ago, the retreat lands have been in limbo since 2015, when the retreat closed,” noted Annis. “As mayor, I would end that uncertainty and make the retreat lands part of our city-wide park system, keeping it open and available to our community.”
Scott Branden of the Rosemary Heights Community Association says “high-density housing would overwhelm local schools, congest quiet neighbourhood streets, and violate the Neighbourhood Concept Plan.”
“The Rosemary Heights community is grateful for the support and united in opposing the rezoning of this environmentally sensitive site,” said Branden. “We are eager for a resolution on this matter and encouraged that protecting this land as a public park is recognized as a path forward. It respects residents and fulfills Surrey’s Official Community Plan and the Metro 2050 mandate to preserve our essential green public infrastructure network.”
Annis said she supports development that makes Surrey better, but she also wants to ensure Surrey keeps up with public amenities, including parks and green space.
“Our city is under strong provincial pressure to increase housing and density, but frankly like many other municipal leaders, I do not believe Victoria knows what is best for our city,” said Annis. “We know our own community, and Surrey has done a good job of producing housing. A big part of that growth is more infrastructure, including parks and recreation facilities. The unique origin of the retreat lands and its beautiful Nicomekl setting reinforces its value to our city, and I would go one step further and add an onsite nature centre. At the end of the day, great cities are not just bricks and mortar, they include public and green spaces that make communities livable for every generation.