Plans for two highrise towers in downtown Langford have been put on ice.
The city’s Sustainable Development Advisory Committee has recommended to council that “no action” be taken with an application to rezone land at Peatt and Sunderland roads, to allow for the development of two mixed-use buildings, until a refresh of the official community plan (OCP) has been completed.
The application made by ParaMorph Architect on behalf of the property owners proposes two towers, 13 and 22 storeys in height, with approximately 317 units.
“This is not a shut down … we are still open to engaging in a conversation around the potential of this project,” said Coun. Kimberley Guiry at the March 10 meeting. “We just need some clarity about where the city is at with the planning.”
The OCP refresh is expected to be completed by June. Described as a “street map for Langford's future,” the OCP helps guide land use in the community, including where new homes and parks go.
"It gives us a little bit of time to hear from our community with the OCP refresh," said Coun. Lillian Szpak. "And focus council’s thoughts on what are we hearing from the community about tall buildings in general."
In February, residents shared their opinions on the proposed development, including concerns about its impact on traffic and the increase in density. A Sunderland Road resident also warned the committee that his home would be left "orphaned" by the proposed highrise towers, leaving him with little or no option to sell his property in the future.
At the March 10 meeting, Coun. Mary Wagner proposed a motion recommending council consider allowing the developer to use the orphaned property as a possible park or amenity contribution to the city – if the developer can obtain the property.
Wagner suggested the space could be used as a dog park for residents of the highrise and the surrounding area. Her motion was unanimously supported by the committee.
