Surrey city council approves 12 cannabis retail locations

City council approved the locations for 12 legal cannabis retailers Monday evening in Surrey, years after cannabis was legalized.

The city greenlit the plan for choosing two locations in six town centres back in April. Now, with the locations approved, council needs to approve rezoning for the stores and open the issue to public input.

Coun. Linda Annis tells OMNI News the process will continue for several months before the stores are operational.

“This isn’t a completely done deal, yet. We do have to go through and of course, it’s very important that we talk to the public and get their input,” said Annis.

She says it’s unfortunate how long the council took to reach a conclusion, adding that it still isn’t enough to keep up with Surrey’s growing population.

“I don’t think it is enough stores. I think we should let the market dictate how many stores we have here in Surrey. It is a free market, and it’s very important that we allow businesses to thrive there,” said Annis.

“It’s maybe not for everyone, but that’s your choice as to whether or not you want to go and purchase in a store or not. Many people use cannabis oils and other products, and I think it’s important that it’s available to them.”

She says the city will have “no relationship” to the stores, except for setting the criteria for their operation.

“Similar to what we do with our liquor stores. So not close to daycares, not close to schools, are just some examples,” Annis explained.

In a release Tuesday, the Surrey Board of Trade applauded the council’s decision. Eight businesses were approved to occupy the 12 stores, and the board says they’re all welcome additions to the local economy.

“By enabling a regulated and responsible cannabis retail industry, Surrey is opening doors for economic growth, job creation, and revenue diversification, while enhancing consumer safety through a regulated market,” said spokesperson Jasroop Gosal.

“We look forward to working with the cannabis retail sector and stakeholders to ensure that this industry grows responsibly and in a way that benefits Surrey’s residents and businesses alike.”