A massive development in Vic West that has been in the works for decades and would add 1,900 residential units to Victoria’s housing market has been green-lit for public consultation.
The Roundhouse at Bayview Place project has been long-envisioned for the former terminus of the E&N rail line in Victoria, with its developer previously having received approval in 2008 for rezoning and a development permit.
“This [development permit] was for a 25-storey building on the south portion of the site, but the Development Permit has since expired,” says a staff report presented at Victoria’s committee of the whole Thursday.
“The applicant has indicated that the development as planned in 2008 is no longer financially viable, and in order to provide the amenities previously secured more density is required.”
The developer, Focus Equities, has now returned with a new proposal that includes up to 1,750 units of condo units including 150 rental, 156 affordable rental units, commercial space, public plazas, and green spaces.
The committee of the whole approved a consultation period of 60 days for the Roundhouse project to allow for consultation with various other government levels including the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations as well as nearby residents.
Today, Council unanimously (9-0) sent the biggest development in Victoria history (Bayview, 1500-1900 units) to the next stage. This allows staff to work with the developer on the density/design, in preparation for OCP amendments, rezoning and public hearing #yyj #victoriabc pic.twitter.com/83IGoZC9AP
— Matt Dell (@mattdellok) May 4, 2023
Work will be done to preserve some of the heritage buildings on the site.
“The application proposes to treat the Roundhouse complex as an historic precinct located in the northeast quadrant of the site; however, it also proposes to add buildings immediately adjacent to the Roundhouse and Back Shop,” the staff report says.
“The proposed adaptive re-use and rehabilitation of the existing structures as a separate area will help protect the historic character-defining elements of the buildings and is supportable as a heritage planning strategy.”
The proposal also calls for the rail lines to be re-aligned through the area to maintain the rail capabilities, while allowing the north portion to be developed.
READ PREVIOUS: Developer commits $15M for affordable housing tower on Vic West Roundhouse property
Laura Brougham
