The opening this week of a spectacular $14-million equestrian centre and clubhouse marks the completion of  Cressey Development鈥檚 High Point Estates, an equestrian-themed neighbourhood that brings a high-end burnish to 91原创 Township鈥檚 unofficial role as the horse capital of B.C.

鈥淭his is an exciting day for 91原创,鈥� said deputy Mayor Mel Kositsky. 鈥淚t fits with our profile as a place that welcomes the horse industry.

The 8,000-square-foot equestrian centre houses a huge indoor, light-filled riding arena, outdoor riding ring, a 1,000-square-foot clubhouse with bar, pool tables and covered patio, tennis court and a 4,000-square-foot fitness centre with his and hers steam rooms, yoga area, cardio, stretch and weight rooms.

鈥淚t鈥檚 absolutely grand,鈥� said High Point resident Noel Asmar-Curtis, owner of an equestrian wear company and one of the first to purchase a lot in the subdivision.

Asmar-Curtis says she travels all over the world for her business and has not seen a facility that equals High Point鈥檚.

The centre, which sits on eight acres, also features spacious horse barns with 40 stalls that are for sale or lease, and is available for riding lessons, boarding, training and facility rental for community events.

High Point was 鈥渋mpacted pretty hard鈥� by the recession, said Cressey development manager Jason Turcotte, but sales are becoming 鈥渞eally strong鈥�.

The 287-acre development, a former gravel pit in south 91原创, has 164 home lots ranging from half an acre to eight acres. Lot prices start at $529,000 and houses range in size from a massive 26,000-square-foot house now under construction to more modest 2,500-square-foot homes. Some 60 lots are still for sale.

Turcotte said his company was surprised at the number of buyers who are not involved with horses.

鈥淲e expected to get the horse people, but we鈥檙e actually getting a number of people who want the country feel, who like the idea of horse activity but don鈥檛 ride themselves.鈥�

As part of its development agreement with the Township, High Point has dedicated 90 acres to public use as riding trails, protected wetlands and a spring-fed lake. The nine kilometres of trails connect to the 30 kilometres of existing trails in nearby Campbell Valley Regional Park.

Turcotte said Cressey has no plans to build a similar development because High Point was the result of a unique confluence of public vision and private development activity. 鈥淚t is unique in Canada,鈥� he added.

The public is invited to attend an open house at the equestrian facility this Saturday, May 14, from noon to 4 p.m. High Point is located at 658 200 St.