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Feedback from the first two phases of engagement has been incorporated into Draft Neighbourhood Plans for Fernwood, Hillside-Quadra and North Park. Residents are now invited to give their feedback to help create the final plans and to share what ideas they like, what ideas they’d change and what is missing.

“Neighbourhood plans are about creating inclusive, liveable urban villages, with more housing around them and stronger connections between them,” said Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps. “The City is looking for feedback on the new housing choice options, safe and sustainable mobility options, and how we create joyful public spaces for everyone in these three neighbourhoods over the next 10-20 years.”

Early engagement occurred in Spring 2020. The second phase of engagement on draft directions took place between December 2020 and March 2021. So far in this process, over 1,800 diverse community members have shared their ideas.

While each neighbourhood has its own distinct character and individual priorities, a common engagement theme was the desire for a ‘15-minute community’ with a wider range of housing choice, both on and off transit corridors, with walkable lively urban villages and public spaces that bring people together, support local businesses and foster a sense of community identity.

Highlights of the Draft Neighbourhood Plans include:

  • Fernwood
    • Ideas for a gradual expansion of Fernwood Village with more and refreshed public space, opportunities for smaller shops and more housing choices
    • Ideas for transforming Bay Street into a better place for people, with more trees, housing choices, shops and wider sidewalks, crossings and bus transit
    • New car-lite housing options that fit into the neighbourhood, for both renters and buyers
    • Ideas to enhance public spaces and walking routes
  • Hillside-Quadra
    • Ideas for new green spaces and public plazas
    • Housing opportunities for renters and buyers of different incomes
    • Opportunities for Quadra Village and smaller commercial corners to evolve over time while maintaining small spaces for beloved businesses
    • Better ways to walk, roll or scoot between homes, parks and destinations
    • Ideas to renew and expand community venues like the Roxy and community centre
  • North Park
  • Ideas for a new public plaza in North Park Village and more green space
  • Options for the village to grow while keeping spaces for small and local-serving shops
  • New housing choices for people of different incomes along green and leafy streets
  • Amenities like a new community centre
  • Opportunities for maker-spaces, artisans and creative businesses

Have Your Say 

Victoria residents are invited to participate in an online Open House, complete with a video, survey and live online “Ask a Planner” sessions for each neighbourhood. City staff will also be hosting two pop-up engagement opportunities in each neighbourhood. Throughout Saturdays in November, residents can RSVP for a Neighbourhood Walkshop or drop in for an in-person Neighbourhood Open House.

Visit engage.victoria.ca to learn more and have your say. i