In recommending Abstract Developments’ townhouse application in the Swan Lake neighbourhood, the District of Saanich breaks all the rules.
Since 2018, when Saanich council unadvisedly repealed the Environmental Development Permit Area bylaw, council has been taking development decisions in a regulatory vacuum for the environment with disastrous consequences for the endangered Garry oak trees.
In the absence of a replacement bylaw, Saanich council has created a highly polarized situation for both residents and developers, which it needs to solve quickly if it is to build more homes.