Letter dated August 29, 2020 from Gordon Barnes, Re: Proposed development at #9 Erskine Ln.
Letter from Gordon Barnes stating that the proposed high-density development is extremely disruptive and does not fit the character of North View Royal.
To: View Royal mayor and council From: Gordon Barnes Ph.D., Scientist Emeritus, Center for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria. Resident unit 56, 14 Erskine Date: August 29, 2020 Re: Proposed development at #9 Erskine Ln.
I have been living in the Erskine Lane town house complex in View Royal for over 20 years now. During that time there has been a dramatic change in the neighborhood. For the most part these changes have occurred at a moderate pace, and most of the changes have been well planned to not disrupt this unique natural setting in View Royal. Some of the new developments have added important resources to the neighborhood including a school, shopping mall and golf course. Housing developments have progressed at a moderate pace, with low density single family dwellings, and small townhouse developments at first. More recent developments have included some larger condos along Watkiss Way. All of the developments completed thus far have added something to the neighborhood. Care has been taken to preserve some of the important natural features including heritage trees and Gary Oak meadows. Small commercial operations have been included in some of the new housing developments. These amenities have enhanced the quality of life in the neighborhood. The proposed property development at number 9 Erskine lane does not seem to fit the careful development approach that has taken place in North View Royal over the past 20 years. The new development would be extremely disruptive to the existing neighborhood, with extensive blasting and levelling of the property, and clear cutting of trees. The buildings that are proposed are large cookie cutter units with as many small units as possible crammed into the buildings, with no common meeting areas, commercial space or recreational areas. The property at # 9 Erskine Lane is a beautiful property that should be developed by someone who appreciates the history and beauty of this neighborhood. The recent Eagles Nest Development plan shows that it is possible to develop properties in such a way that the development adds to the neighborhood and allows the developer to meet their needs as well.