Quadra McKenzie Plan receives final approval from Saanich council

After several revisions and years of work, the Quadra McKenzie Plan (QMP) has been approved by the District of Saanich. 

With the QMP receiving its final approval on Monday, July 6th, the long-term vision for the area will begin to be put into action for how this key area will grow and change over the next 20 years and beyond. 

The plan has been in the works for nearly three years, and has undergone several revisions, technical analysis, public engagement and council deliberation. 

Through its revisions, the QMP was refined and aligned with the needs of the community. 

The goal of the QMP is ultimately to help balance growth with livability, transportation choices, public realm improvements and environmental sustainability.

“This process showed just how much Saanich residents care about the future of their community, and I want to acknowledge their meaningful input and how it helped shape this final plan,” says Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock. 

“The QMP gives us a strong foundation for the future of the Quadra McKenzie area and helps ensure that as change happens over time, it supports new homes, better transportation options and vibrant places for people to live, work, shop and connect.”

In addition to affirming previous revisions, council added an amendment to strengthen the QMP’s environmental direction via a new goal of protecting and restoring ecosystems and supporting biodiversity in the region. 

Furthermore, the plan includes policies to work and partner with local First Nations communities to incorporate Indigenous knowledge into Garry oak restoration and monitoring. Through this initiative, culturally appropriate interpretation and education will be implemented within parks and along trails.

According to the District, the changes included in the QMP will not happen overnight. This vision is intended to provide guidance over the next two decades so that growth happens in a coordinated, thoughtful way.

Saanich hopes the gradual implementation of the QMP will better support future housing and employment growth in affected urban areas, while improving connections between neighbourhoods and helping residents to benefit from more services and amenities close to home.

For more on the vast scope of the now-approved QMP, click here.