North Saanich residents criticize OCP consultation process

Residents have raised concerns regarding the adequacy of community consultation during the development of the North Saanich Official Community Plan (OCP) between 2021 and early 2023. Critics argue that the planning efforts led by Modus Planning, Design & Engagement failed to address the community's desire to maintain its rural character.

The proposed urban planning objectives included the creation of four major growth hubs featuring higher housing densities, such as apartments, condos, and townhouses. These locations included McTavish, Tsehum Harbour, the southeast quadrant, and Deep Cove, with an additional commercial node proposed near the Ardmore Golf Course.

Some proposals involved adjusting the Urban Containment Boundary (UCB). Critics note that North Saanich is currently situated outside the UCB within the Capital Regional District (CRD) Regional Growth Strategy and is valued for its agricultural and forest lands. Residents reportedly rejected the density proposals, and there are allegations that critical feedback provided via planning maps was not initially collated or summarized by the planning firm.