Some changes could be coming to Victoria’s Fairmont Empress.
The Fairmont Empress is asking Victoria city council to support a change to its liquor licence that would allow for a larger service capacity in two of its private event spaces, the Harbour View Terrace and the Library.
City staff recommend that the council approve the application at the Committee of the Whole on Thursday, September 11th.
If approved, the total licensed capacity at the hotel would increase from 449 to 779, adding 330 more people spread between the terrace, which has 250 seats, and the Library, which has 80 seats.
The licensed service hours will stay the same, from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily.
A common misconception is that the Empress is planning to open a new rooftop lounge.
In reality, both the Harbour View Terrace and the Library already exist and are currently used as private rental and catering venues. The application aims to include these spaces under the hotel’s current liquor-primary license.
“The Harbour View Terrace is located above the hotel’s main lobby and offers a stunning view of Victoria’s Inner Harbour, along with a unique look at the hotel’s crystal chandelier made up of 250,000 crystals,” said Lisa McPhail, Director of Public Relations at the Fairmont Empress.
She added that these spaces are available for special occasions like corporate receptions and provide an exclusive setting for groups seeking a beautiful backdrop.
As part of the City’s process, 925 notices were sent to nearby property owners and residents. Three letters were received, all expressing concerns or opposition, and the Downtown Residents Association did not comment.
However, city staff pointed out that the proposal meets Victoria’s Liquor Licensing Policy and the hotel’s zoning requirements and that the Empress has a long history of responsible operations. They do not expect noise issues since the service hours will not change.
McPhail mentioned that there has been a lot of excitement about the Harbour View Terrace, with guests enjoying its sunset views and harbour backdrop.
The Library continues to be a cozy space for catered functions.
“These are not new additions, but rather existing private group and catering spaces that we are proud to make available to the community,” she said.
If the council accepts the staff’s recommendation, its resolution will be forwarded to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch, which will have the final say on the application.
