Link to letter on the Times Colonist website
Community plans should protect neighbourhoods
Community plans require significant investment and effort. They involve extensive community participation and often the expertise of consultants to gather and synthesize residents’ visions for their neighbourhood. James Bay has such a plan, one that recognizes the area’s unique character.
James Bay is a small, historic residential neighbourhood remarkably close to downtown. Its survival is noteworthy, as similar neighbourhoods in many other cities have disappeared. This unique character makes it worthy of preservation.
Many residents have chosen to live in James Bay specifically for its distinct atmosphere. Tourists from around the globe visit to admire the historic homes and buildings, the seaside views, and the unique inner-city lifestyle.
The Quebec, Montreal, and Kingston development is a sensible project, as it uses a parking lot and avoids the destruction of historic homes. However, any expansion beyond the parameters defined in James Bay’s existing community plan would be inappropriate.
Victoria needs more affordable housing. It does not need luxury high-rise towers that most residents cannot afford. Highrise towers are incompatible with the character of James Bay and would set a precedent that neither residents nor Until the existing community plan is updated to reflect the community’s current vision, the established rules should be maintained.
Otherwise, what is the point of having a community plan at all?
—John Greaves, BID, Victoria