Qualicum Beach Approves Rezoning for Eaglecrest Golf Course Purchase

The Town of Qualicum Beach has successfully adopted amendments to the Official Community Plan and rezoning for the Eaglecrest Golf Course lands. This decision comes ahead of the impending deadline to finalize a purchase agreement by November 1, 2025. The amendments facilitate the town’s potential acquisition of the golf course, which is at risk of closing.

While the rezoning has been approved, town officials emphasized that if the purchase does not go through, the lands will revert to their previous designations. The plan aims to generate funding through the sale of select land parcels, which will be pre-zoned for development, should the Town take ownership of the property.

The town’s staff report outlines a strategy that includes securing short-term financing through reallocations from reserves and the sale of residentially zoned lands already owned by the town, located in the Eaglecrest area. This multifaceted approach is designed to enable the acquisition without imposing a financial burden on the community.

Community Response and Concerns

Most aspects of the rezoning plan received unanimous support from the council, though Councillor Scott Harrison expressed concerns over specific elements. He criticized the plan for prioritizing car-centric development, noting that the only proposed amenity is a clubhouse for the golf course. Harrison remarked, “This is all going to be car-focused development. Ultimately, there’s one amenity, which is a clubhouse for the golf course. We’re not doing anything commercial.” He advocated for increased density in the downtown core to mitigate traffic issues.

The potential purchase of the Eaglecrest Golf Course has been in the works since July 2025, when it was revealed that the course was at risk of closure. In response, Qualicum Beach emerged as a prospective buyer. The initial vision for the property included plans to develop 10 acres of the 105-acre site into housing while preserving part of it as a golf course or forested parks.

Financial Support and Future Plans

Earlier this month, an anonymous donor stepped forward with a commitment of $2.1 million towards the total purchase price of $8.5 million. This significant contribution has generated interest and engagement from the public regarding the proposed acquisition and the future of the lands.

Community meetings have been held to gather feedback on the purchase and development plans, reflecting the importance of the Eaglecrest Golf Course to the local identity and recreational offerings. The town’s efforts to keep the course operational while exploring development options signal a strategic approach to urban planning in the region.

As the deadline for the purchase agreement approaches, the Town of Qualicum Beach remains focused on securing the future of the Eaglecrest Golf Course, balancing community needs with financial viability.