On Saturday February 8th, a group of more than 50 residents from across Victoria came out in costume in James Bay to protest against the development of tower blocks in residential areas, saying “It’s time for Victoria to scale back its development plans”.
The demonstration focused on a specific proposal that has crystallized opposition to overdevelopment. Despite strong opposition from residents and from the city’s own planning department, the City Council has approved a proposal to build a 14-storey tower on a lot bounded by Quebec, Montreal and Kingston Streets. But this requires a change of zoning, which will go to a public hearing on a date to be announced.
The residents will oppose rezoning at the public hearing. They want the site to be developed, but not for expensive investment properties. They want family housing that enhances the neighbourhood, as the current zoning allows, not mixed-use high-rise high-density buildings. They also point to a myriad of other issues that come with overdevelopment, including the safety concerns raised by increased traffic.
The protesters declared their determination to continue their opposition. This site is significant for the whole city. It is passed by thousands of cruise ship passengers, buses, taxis, horse-drawn carriages, and kabuki cabs. It is the last defence against over-development and exploitation by developers. If it is rezoned, that will set a precedent for revision of the Official Community Plan and nowhere in Victoria will be secure.
Saanich is scaling back its development plans. A Port Moody Councillor has called for a referendum on proliferation of tower blocks. Isn’t it time for a referendum on the future density of Victoria?
For more information and photos, see: www.toodensenosense.ca
