Smook Contractors has been successful in getting approval for a temporary construction camp just outside of Thompson.

Their initial application for a General Permit was refused back in October 2024, but they addressed the need for this camp for their workers as they are the local provider of aggregate for all civil construction in Thompson and the region.

They also received letters of support from Vale, the Thompson Regional Airport Authority and Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure, all who have active contracts with Smooks.

On City Beat yesterday, Deputy Mayor Louis Fitzpatrick said that the temporary camp would support local businesses, as well.

“They only use local contractors as much as they can, they are hiring local cooks, cleaning, maintenance staff. Groceries and what not, airpods or propane required and septic services, all of that will be feeding up local services.”

The camp will provide accommodations and food services to the workers on a 24-hour basis.

There was opposition to the camp from a couple local apartment rental companies stating that there are plenty of vacant apartments available already.