Saanich Residents Voice Concerns Over Shelbourne Valley Plan

Residents of Saanich, British Columbia, expressed significant concerns regarding the District’s recently unveiled Shelbourne Valley Plan during a public meeting on October 2, 2023. Hosted at the Lambrick Park Recreation Centre, the gathering attracted a diverse group of attendees eager to learn about the proposed urban development initiatives.

The atmosphere was charged as approximately a dozen urban planners and project managers facilitated discussions around display panels showcasing the plan. Many residents felt that their perspectives were overlooked, as city officials seemed focused on promoting a vision of urban living that prioritizes compactness over community input. Critics argue that this plan could disrupt the quality of life in Saanich, which has long been characterized by its family-friendly neighborhoods and natural beauty.

The proposal includes a shift towards high-density housing, featuring tightly packed townhomes and buildings ranging from low-rise to 18-storey towers. This move aims to create designated urban centres within the community, with the promise that residents would be able to access essential services within a 15-minute walk. However, many locals are concerned that the emphasis on pedestrian and cyclist accessibility comes at the expense of existing transportation networks.

Critics like resident Jenus Friesen argue that the plan threatens the long-standing character of neighborhoods in Gordon Head and the Shelbourne Valley. Friesen pointed out that cherished green spaces, mature trees, and established homes could be replaced with high-density developments, contradicting the community’s values.

Many attendees at the meeting voiced their preference for “gentle densification” options, such as duplexes and backyard suites, rather than large-scale redevelopment. Friesen emphasized the need for the Saanich council to consider alternative plans that balance housing requirements with environmental sustainability and the preservation of community character.

As Saanich moves forward with its development goals, which are set to be solidified by early 2026, the debate continues over the future of the area. Residents are eager to see if the council will heed their calls for a more inclusive approach to urban planning, one that respects the unique qualities that define Saanich as a vibrant community.