The District of Saanich is set to receive a 1.85-acre property through a donation from local resident Edward (Ted) Wilson with the intention of it being used for park space.
The property is located at 731 Burnside Road West, near the street’s intersection with McKenzie Avenue.
Saanich says it plans to subdivide the nearly two-acre property into two parcels. The southern portion, adjacent to the Galloping Goose Regional Trail, will be developed into a new youth bike skills park over the next few years and city staff say they intend to put forward a request of approximately $200,000 for Council to consider as part of the 2023 budget process to fund its construction.
The northern portion, a wooded area with second-growth forest, will be protected as part of Saanich’s urban forest.
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Saanich says it will hold this “preservation parcel” in trust and has granted a life estate to Mr. Wilson, so he may continue residing in the existing single-family residence on the property.
“This property was purchased by my parents before I was born, and I’ve lived here my entire life,” said property owner Ted Wilson. “It’s a pleasure for me to know the property will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.”
Saanich Mayor Fred Haynes describes Wilson’s donation as being “a tremendous and valuable gift of green space that is wonderfully rich in forest and open spaces” that can help the District promote and encourage active lifestyles.
“On behalf of Saanich, I thank him for his generosity and thoughtfulness. His gift adds significantly to our parks and brings real benefit for all our residents with increased recreation opportunities and an enhanced urban forest,” added Haynes
More information, including opportunities for public input on the bike skills park, will become available at saanich.ca as the project progresses.
Graham Cox
