Letter dated September 14, 2020 from G. Warren-Adams, Re: Westurban Developments - 9 Erskine Lane
Letter from a Realtor supporting the project, highlighting fiscal sustainability and community growth within the Hospital Neighbourhood Centre.
September 14, 2020
Town of View Royal 45 View Royal Avenue Victoria, B.C.
Attention: Mayor and Council
Dear Sirs/Madam;
Re: Westurban Developments - 9 Erskine Lane
My name is Glenda Warren-Adams and I am a Realtor with RE/MAX Camosun. I am also one of the listing agents of the above-noted property and am related to the family. I was born and raised in View Royal, am still a registered property owner in View Royal and currently have an elderly mother residing in the Community. As you can imagine, I approach this issue from a number of different perspectives; that of a Realtor, a View Royal homeowner and that of a daughter looking out for her aging mother.
I understand and empathize with the residents of 14 Erskine Lane that they do not want to see change within their immediate neighbourhood, however, the growth that has taken place in and around the Hospital Neighbourhood Centre over the last several years has benefited the community greatly. This proposed development provides much needed housing for singles, families and seniors, will contribute to View Royal’s tax base and will support local businesses.
As a community Realtor, I have always made it my practise to advise and suggest to my clients that they attend the municipal hall and speak with planners about any potential development(s) that may occur within the immediate and surrounding areas of where they may be purchasing and, in particular, review the OCP (Official Community Plan); especially if they are purchasing within an area where there is evidence of ongoing development opportunities or, alternatively, are in close proximity to a Hospital or other major amenity. The OCP is a public document easily found on the View Royal’s website for anyone to peruse.
Since the OCP’s inception in 1990, it has provided for housing and community growth opportunies within the Hospital Neighbourhood Centre, which includes multi family developments. 9 Erskine Lane falls within this area and has always been a prime location for this type of community development.
The creation of more self-sufficient neighbourhoods and a complete community is a cornerstone of View Royal’s plan. The OCP explicitly directs new growth into higher density, mixed-use centres and as infill in existing neighbourhoods.
View Royal’s Community Vision Points:
- Fiscal sustainability and economic wellness (Westurban Developments will be adding significantly to View Royal’s tax base);
- Promote a strong sense of community (Westurban’s plan is community based, providing a multitude of additional amenities for residents);
- Create an inclusive community that provides housing, transportation and healthy living options, services and facilities for families and individuals of diverse backgrounds, cultures, ages and economic means;