Who is impacted?
The proposed development at 2396 Mountain Heights Drive will significantly affect the residents of Sooke, BC, and those who cherish Broomhill Mountain. This 100-acre site, zoned as Rural Residential per Sooke’s 2022 Official Community Plan (OCP), is home to critical wildlife habitats and interconnected trails enjoyed by hikers, dog walkers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. These trails, which are currently undesignated and on private land, represent a vital recreational resource for the community. Richmond-based developer Farrell Estates Ltd. proposes to rezone the land for 425 housing units and commercial spaces, with a 20-year development timeline.

This extended project risks decades of disruption, permanent loss of greenspaces, and further strain on Sooke’s already overburdened infrastructure. With Highway 14 as the only road in and out of town, traffic congestion and safety concerns are already significant issues, exacerbated by recent closures during emergencies like the bomb cyclone. Residents and emergency responders alike face delays that jeopardize health, safety, and daily life.

What is at stake?
Broomhill Mountain is more than a greenspace—it is a vital ecological, cultural, and social asset. Known as "Sacred Mountain" by the T’Sou-ke Nation, it holds cultural significance and provides a habitat for diverse wildlife, including bears, cougars, deer, and birds. The mountain’s trail network is a cornerstone of the community, supporting mental and physical well-being while attracting visitors who contribute to Sooke’s growing reputation as a recreation destination.

The proposed development would permanently destroy these trails and habitats while undermining Sooke’s identity as a rural, nature-focused community. The District of Sooke’s 2022 OCP identifies sufficient land within designated Community Growth Areas to meet housing needs without encroaching on greenfield sites. A development of this size and scale should be located in the Town Centre, where infrastructure and services already exist to support compact, sustainable growth. Approving this development would contradict the OCP’s principles of greenspace preservation, sustainable transportation, and reduced urban sprawl.

Recent failures like the Viewpointe Estates project, which faced environmental scrutiny and failed to adhere to zoning approvals, illustrate the risks of large developments without robust oversight. Allowing another such project risks long-term damage to the environment and the community’s trust.

Why is now the time to act?
This rezoning application is under review by the District of Sooke council, and a decision is imminent. If approved, this 20-year development project would erase an irreplaceable natural area and set a dangerous precedent for further sprawl in Sooke. Preserving the Rural Residential zoning protects the community’s access to greenspaces, safeguards wildlife habitats, and aligns with the OCP’s vision for sustainable, compact growth. Now is the time to stand up for Sooke’s future and ensure that developments benefit the community without sacrificing its natural and cultural treasures.

Call to Action
We, the undersigned, urge the District of Sooke to reject the rezoning application for 2396 Mountain Heights Drive. Upholding its Rural Residential designation will protect Broomhill Mountain’s trails and habitats, preserve Sooke’s identity, and ensure development aligns with the Official Community Plan. Together, we can safeguard Sooke’s greenspaces, infrastructure, and long-term sustainability for generations to come.

Residents of Sooke only, please email your concerns to: 

Mayor and Council Emails:
Mayor Maja Tait: mtait@sooke.ca
Councillor Jeff Bateman: jbateman@sooke.ca
Councillor Al Beddows: abeddows@sooke.ca
Councillor Tony St-Pierre: tstpierre@sooke.ca
Councillor Megan McMath: mmcmath@sooke.ca
Councillor Dana Lajeunesse: dlajeunesse@sooke.ca

General Distribution Emails:
Council Group Email: council@sooke.ca
Corporate Services: corp@sooke.ca
General Info: info@sooke.ca

Reference the 2396 Mountain Heights Drive Land Use Application.