An anticipated hub of retail and rental homes is now open in Esquimalt Town Centre, bringing with it the return of liquor store Cask & Keg, along with Esquimalt Roasting Company's second location.
The new development, called The Gateway, is located at 856 Esquimalt Rd. and boasts 198 new condo-quality rental homes aimed at families, young professionals and seniors.
The mixed-use development, consisting of two six-storey buildings, was envisioned as a key part of the neighbourhood's ongoing revitalization, providing a gateway to the city's West Bay Village and Town Centre. It stands as both a literal and symbolic entry point, welcoming residents at the main entrance to Esquimalt and connecting them to the wider community, explained PC Urban CEO, Brent Sawchyn.
The project is situated on the former site of the Cambie Pub and the Cask & Keg liquor store.
Esquimalt Roasting Company's owner Greg Sherwell said the new location provides a "bit of an oasis" for the community.
“Esquimalt is a community that is growing quickly, and we felt it was a good opportunity to expand,” said Sherwell, who also lives in Esquimalt. “It will bring a lot more residents and will really help Esquimalt launch itself into next period of its existence.”
The $102M development includes a diversity of one to three bedroom rental homes, with a kids' play area, gym and a 5,000 square foot rooftop amenity space that features a barbecue area, gas fire pits, an outdoor sauna and full indoor kitchen entertainment lounge.
The building will be completed in August, with the first round of renters moving in after Sept. 1.
Two display suites are available for potential renters.
The property was purchased June 30, 2021 and development approved May 25, 2023. Demolition started in November 2022. From start of construction to occupancy of the south building was 31 months, Sawchyn said.
