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: B次元官网网址淓nhance and restore environmental assets including Cecelia Creek and its WatershedB次元官网网址� and Policy 4.4.3 B次元官网网址淭hrough redevelopment seek to acquire additional dedication to secure the historical alignment for future enhancements to Cecelia Creek.B次元官网网址�
This objective and policy from the Uptown-Douglas Plan is linked to the development application as Cecelia CreekB次元官网网址檚 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 peopleB次元官网网址檚 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: B次元官网网址淚f 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?B次元官网网址�
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
