Saanich explores development possibilities for West Saanich Road
November 28, 2024
Information Bulletin
For immediate release
Saanich, BC – As Saanich continues to explore innovative ways to use District-owned property to benefit the community, the District will be moving forward with the proposed pre-zoning and eventual sale or lease of the 1.1-hectare (2.7 acre) property situated between West Saanich Road and Highway 17, across from the Royal Oak Centre Shopping Centre.
The District will prepare a draft concept plan that outlines possibilities for developing the block based on new Official Community Plan and Design Guidelines, before advancing proposed amendments to the Zoning Bylaw. The draft concept plan will be made available for public input, and will help identify opportunities and constraints that need to be considered to ensure any future development is feasible and meets the community’s needs.
Suggestions and comments will be considered as part of the preparation of a rezoning application by District staff, and a comprehensive development zone will be proposed to rezone the property and set out the requirements for development, including specific design and servicing considerations.
Once the property is rezoned, Saanich intends to offer the lands for sale and/or partial lease, or a combination thereof, through a Request for Proposals process. The evaluation criteria will reflect community and municipal interests, and an agreement will be negotiated with the successful proponent. The District will reserve the right to reject all proposals.
The preferred proposal will be subject to a development agreement, including provisions for development timelines that if not achieved, could result in the property ownership reverting back to the District.
Saanich looks forward to getting this process underway and exploring new, beneficial uses for these District-owned lands.
Learn more
Please visit our website for project information.
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Media contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca