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Letters Jan. 22: James Bay project; protecting democracy; lack of workers

3 0
23.01.2025

I have concerns regarding a James Bay development which seems to be proceeding despite the violation of current zoning requirements.

The proposed height of the new structure is 14 storeys, which is above the current four to six storey limit in this neighbourhood.

A structure of this size does not fit in with the surrounding neighbourhood.

This new structure will increase the density of the north end of James Bay which will only cause safety and space concerns. Belleville, Quebec, Montreal and Kingston streets already have heavy traffic from various vehicles – delivery trucks, tour buses, pedicabs, bikes, motorcycles, mobility scooters and pedestrians.

This road is especially busy during the cruise ship season as it is the main route from Ogden Point for visitors to access Victoria’s downtown and surrounding sites. A massive structure like the proposed one does not provide visitors with the best impression of our beautiful neighbourhood and city.

Belleville has already been narrowed by the installation of a new bike lane. With the flow of traffic onto Belleville from Quebec, Pendray and other cross streets from the east and Montreal and Kingston from the west, this alone has the potential for major congestion. The impact of an additional 100-plus new units will be massive!

This size of this development poses an impact to the safety of people who use this corridor regularly and/or live in the area.

This is one of the main roads in and out of James Bay and is already constricted, especially during city-sponsored events such as Canada Day celebrations, marathons and bike races.

There are many objections to this ­project and the council should be advised to review this proposal in view of the many objections from members of the community.

Carol Ann Johnson

Victoria

We live in strange and dangerous times for Canadian democracy. Strange, because the reactionary Conservative party led by Pierre Poilievre has adapted the same housing policy of the supposed most progressive party in Canada, David Eby’s B.C. New Democratic Party.

They both have mandated that a specific number of housing units must be built by towns or municipalities under threat of fine or withholding of funds, as punishment for non-compliance. Furthermore, these policies also mandate streamlining the permit process.

We can talk about number and type of residential units. We can talk about need, variances,........

© Times Colonist


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