After reviewing the developers' new plan, there are still real concerns about the following aspects of the proposal: 

Density and Scale of Development is not in line with Colwood OCP, Form, Character and Sustainability Guidelines. 24.1 Objectives: Ensure the compatibility of development with surrounding built and natural environment that protects existing neighborhood character. 

• The Developer continues to propose four 6 storey buildings right next to Havenwood Park and adjacent single family residential areas.  
• The number of apartments proposed is now 280 from 340 units, far too many compared to the permitted zoning of 21 family homes and one 30-unit apartment bldg. 
• These apartment blocks will be no more than 16-21 meters from private properties, the width of most residential streets. 
• These massive buildings will be a major intrusion on the neighbourhood and visitors to the park.  
• People living on Resolution Way and Hopwood Place will see the 5th and 6th floors from their backyards, compromising their privacy and security. 
• The developers' new plan confirms the requirement to remove all the tall trees surrounding the building site.  Replacing the forest with 1- 2-metre-high saplings, leaving little natural buffer for the surrounding community and park visitors. 
   

Underground Parking with its Hydrology and Geotechnical issues does not follow Colwood OCP 18.4, Site Adaptive Planning is encouraged as an approach to developing environmentally sensitive areas and hillside sites it is not meant to reduce development potential in intended growth areas. The primary objectives of site adaptive planning and design are to maintain the functions of key natural systems including hydrologic (run off) systems, longshore drift systems, climate systems, and ecosystems; and minimize disruption to the landscape in areas identified by the development permit area objectives and guidelines. 

Geotechnical 

• The developer is now proposing to build up to 3 levels of underground parking which will require extensive blasting and excavating. 
• Blasting will impact adjacent neighbourhoods in terms of vibration, noise and potential structural damage to homes that are only 16 to 21 meters from boundary setbacks.  
• This level of disturbance will also impact the park values and visitor experience. 
   

Hydrology 

• Retaining the natural drainage of this site is critical to protect the sensitive wetlands which feed the streams in Havenwood Park. 
• There have been insufficient technical studies to determine how this development will impact on hydrology. 
   

Traffic Congestion 

• Traffic on Veterans Memorial Parkway is already beyond a reasonable level on weekdays. 
• 450-500 vehicles from the development will create more congestion at the Havenwood Park entrance and increase public safety for park users at the pedestrian cross walk. 
• Restricted vehicle access to the site will require drivers to go in the opposite direction of their destination, channeling vehicles to the future Latoria VMP roundabout creating more congestion and forces more traffic into the Carindale Road residential area.  
    

Havenwood Park 

Colwood is blessed with forested areas with wildlife, waterways, and trails.  We know from reading a variety of media reports, the City of Colwood promotes environmental thinking as they invite new families to enjoy our special municipality. 

One cannot help but ask what the visual intrusion of four 6 storey buildings on the park user given the setbacks are only 7 to 10 meters from the park boundary? The key viewpoints from the park will be compromised by the buildings towering over the forest. 

If this project proceeds, will blasting and construction restrict or preclude public access to the park and for how long?  Projects of this size and complexity take 2 to 3 years to complete, Colwood Corners is an example of how large-scale construction can go on for years.  In addition, the modest park amenities will be taxed by the projected increase from the 500 -600 people living adjacent to the park. The lack of washrooms and parking will be major issues. 

In closing, WE DO NOT support this rezoning application and strongly believe the best land use fit for this parcel is for the current zoning of 21 single family homes and one 30-unit apartment bldg.