Executive members of the Friends of Cecelia Creek Falls Park attended the Sept. 14 meeting held regarding the redevelopment proposal at 760 Tolmie Ave.
The developers were unaware of the following objective and policy from the Environment and Sustainability section of the Uptown-Douglas Plan.
Objective E: “Enhance and restore environmental assets including Cecelia Creek and its Watershed” and Policy 4.4.3 “Through redevelopment seek to acquire additional dedication to secure the historical alignment for future enhancements to Cecelia Creek.”
This objective and policy from the Uptown-Douglas Plan is linked to the development application as Cecelia Creek’s historical alignment is located along the entire length of the west side of the property.
Although Saanich is seeking dedication within the development application along the entire west side of the property, the proposal indicates a paved roadway.
Objectives and policies within the planning document contain the intention to restore biodiversity and support the health and quality of life of the population. Not having these objectives and policies implemented during the application stage undermines the planning process. The proposed land use needs to enhance and restore environmental assets. It is vital and prudent that these components be part of redeveloping Uptown.
Nature provides benefits when having the fundamental elements close to people’s doorsteps. This creates a known physical and mental health benefit. We should be striving to create the healthiest possible natural and built environment for the future population to enjoy a healthy successful life.
Ask yourself: “If you were living in this area of Uptown 50-plus years from now, what would you prefer to have included as part of the redevelopment of Uptown today?”
Would you prefer the asset of a naturally flowing creek, beside a multi-use trail, underneath a lush green tree canopy winding its way through the city? Or would you prefer an additional paved roadway?
If you believe that including, enhancing and restoring environmental assets is a vital part of the redevelopment of Uptown for the future population, then please send your voice of support for this objective and policy from the Uptown-Douglas Plan, Environment and Sustainability section to council@saanich.ca
Ken Whitcroft, chair
Friends of Cecelia Creek Falls Park
