As Saanich works to meet this year’s housing target, council advanced a 122-unit project, split into two buildings located on the 900 block of McKenzie Avenue and Annie Street.
The application to rezone six single- and two-family dwellings received three readings at the Jan. 20 meeting, allowing the area to be converted into two six-storey apartment complexes.
The nearly one-acre site near Saanich Road will feature two buildings: a 69-unit condominium complex facing McKenzie Avenue, and a 53-unit building facing Annie Street, with 12 of those units designated for a 10-year rental tenure.
Ranging from studios to 3-bedroom residences, the two complexes are set to have 127 parking spaces.
Although some councillors expressed disappointment over the lack of permanent secured rental units, they ultimately acknowledged the project's importance in increasing the district’s housing stock.
“In my mind, this is the type of density that Saanich is looking for,” said Coun. Colin Plant. “It is along a significant corridor and it offers, at least in its opening, two different tenures, both rental and ownership – and we know that we need both in Saanich.”
“There's no question whatsoever that this is the right location for this type of density,” added Coun. Karen Harper. “It's the right mix of unit sizes, and to me, it's a win for… our community overall.”
Coun. Zach de Vries, who once called this neighbourhood home, embraced the housing plan.
“This is the type of project that we need to see more of,” said de Vries. “It has a mixture of units and tenures being suggested and we need housing of all types. I say with a great deal of certainty that this is a fantastic location.”
Coun. Susan Brice, like Plant, interpreted the limited public input as a sign of support for the project, calling the proposal “a logical plan.”
Located in what is considered a primary growth area, according to Saanich’s official community plan, Mayor Dean Murdock lent his support to the project, citing its proximity to nearby public amenities and community services.
“Six storeys for rental and condo in this location is a very modest density compared to what is potentially proposed in transit-oriented areas,” said Murdock. “I also want to acknowledge that there is open space [for] playground and recreation areas where people can gather. This is really how you forge community in those new multi-unit spaces.”
The project’s developer pledged a community amenity contribution of $351,360, with funds allocated to affordable housing ($105,408), local amenities ($175,680), and park acquisition ($70,272).
