Sooke district council has unanimously given preliminary approval for a mixed-use development proposed for the downtown core, hailing it as a significant step towards revitalizing the area.
Barefoot Planning plans to construct a four-storey building at 6676 Sooke Rd. The building will feature 35 rental housing units above commercial space, with on-site tuck-behind parking for residents and businesses.
Council members strongly supported the project during the Feb. 12 meeting, with unanimous votes in favour of the first three readings of a bylaw that would change the land zoning from commercial to mixed-use.
“This development could be a landmark example for the future of the downtown core,” said Coun. Jeff Bateman, echoing the sentiments of his colleagues, including Mayor Maja Tait.
“It’s exactly what we’ve been waiting for, for so long,” said Coun. Megan McMath. “I’m really excited and looking forward to seeing it come to fruition.”
Coun. Tony St.Pierre added, “I’m really glad to see some of this redevelopment come to Sooke, especially the high-density residential with commercial.”
The development site is at the corner of Sooke and Townsend roads. It is currently occupied by India Delight Bistro & Bar and its parking lot.
A report by Jayden Riley, the district manager of community planning, presented a rezoning application for a 0.57-hectare property. The proposal includes upgrades to Sooke and Townsend roads and additional parking. However, the specific commercial uses are yet to be determined.
The applicant must allocate space for a public road right-of-way as part of the bylaw amendment process. This involves setting aside an area approximately two metres wide along the Sooke Road boundary and the existing 2.5 metres of statutory right-of-way.
The proposal also includes a text amendment to the bylaw stipulating that the property’s primary use be limited to mixed commercial and residential purposes, with residential use occupying at least half of the building’s gross floor area. Additionally, the developer has agreed to contribute $50,000 to the district’s housing reserve fund.
According to Riley, the amended bylaw aligns with the district’s guidelines for development and land use in the town center, which aims to concentrate retail, services, and high-density residential development in the town’s core.
The developer will apply for a development permit within the following year.
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