The Township of Esquimalt is looking into recalibrating its official community plan (OCP) following 2023 provincial legislation requiring municipalities to update their OCPs by the end of 2025 to have sufficient land use capacity to meet 20-year housing targets.
The OCP, which mainly guides the township's long-term vision for land-use and development, already meets sufficient land use capacity so no changes to existing land use designations are anticipated. Instead, the township is looking at amendments to align the plan with new requirements and improve clarity in the plan.
"This is not a major update, but a recalibration to reflect today’s priorities," noted a news release from the township.
The township's proposed policy changes – which can be found at EngagingEsquimalt.ca/OCP2025 – include encouraging the provision of affordable housing in both private and non-profit sectors, allowing small scale multi-family housing, encouraging townhouses, protecting and restoring local shorelines and more.
For those looking to learn more, or share their thoughts, there will be an online open house available from July 28 to Aug. 31, as well as two in-person events.
The first in-person event will be at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre on July 28 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. where participants will have a chance to talk to staff, learn more about the proposed changes and give feedback. The second in-person event will be at the July 31 Esquimalt Farmer’s Market from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Rather than a detailed survey, the township is welcoming feedback either by submitted comments at the in-person events, via the online open house at EngagingEsquimalt.ca/OCP2025, or via email to development.services@esquimalt.ca.
A comprehensive review and full OCP update is planned to begin next year, with completion targeted for 2030.
