News Release
For immediate release

Saanich, BC – The District of Saanich’s updated Official Community Plan (OCP) was adopted by Council this week. It will act as the primary document that will shape growth and change in Saanich and will guide all municipal actions related to land use.

“The updated plan will guide us to create more homes for more people while contributing to a more sustainable, livable community for everyone,” says Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock. “This plan ensures Saanich continues to provide a high quality of life for our growing community.”

The Strategic OCP Update project was initiated in Spring 2022 and included multiple opportunities for public engagement over the past two years. Provincially mandated housing targets and new provincial legislation have been incorporated into the new OCP through this process. The OCP includes four strategic land use directions, which are:

• Maintain the Urban Containment Boundary;
• Accommodate Most New Development in Primary Growth Areas (Centres, Corridors and Villages);
• Expand Housing Diversity in Neighbourhoods; and
• Make Saanich a 15-Minute Community.

Since the last update of the OCP in 2008, several strategic plans and initiatives such as the Climate Plan, Housing Strategy and Active Transportation Plan have been completed, and the OCP will work with these plans to implement Saanich’s sustainability vision.

Public engagement played a critical role throughout all phases of the Strategic OCP Update process. Along with presentations at Council meetings, the District hosted public and stakeholder workshops, webinars, open house events, and received feedback from public surveys.

“Engaging with our residents played a vital part in shaping this important document,” says Murdock. “Thank you to everyone who helped create the vision for a healthier, more sustainable and inclusive community.”

Learn More

For more information about the OCP, please visit Saanich.ca/OCP

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Media Contact:
Saanich Communications
media@saanich.ca