The Issue:

A significant high-density development is currently kicking off at 3401 Woodburn Avenue in Oak Bay, and our neighbourhood was never given a voice. Despite this project being situated on a quiet, closed-loop cul-de-sac, no proposal signs were ever posted. We are now facing a 400% increase in density on a single lot without any public discussion regarding how our local infrastructure can sustain it.

While we recognize the province-wide shifts in housing legislation, the District of Oak Bay must ensure that "growth" does not come at the expense of public safety, basic infrastructure, and community trust.

Why We Are Concerned:

A Dangerous Precedent: This proposal includes "Accessory" buildings of 2,400 sq. ft.—larger than the original house. If this is allowed to proceed unchallenged, it sets a permanent precedent for every lot on our street to be built out into a high-density complex.
Infrastructure Risks: Woodburn Avenue already faces documented sewage backup issues. Adding four households to one lot puts an immense strain on our aging pipes and drainage. We need a guarantee that our basements and streets are safe from infrastructure failure.

Safety & Congestion: Our narrow cul-de-sac was not designed for this level of traffic, parking, and construction. We have seen no plan for how emergency vehicles or waste management will safely navigate this "unusual" setup.

Loss of Community Voice: For decades, Oak Bay has thrived on community engagement. By failing to provide notice, the District has denied us our right to be heard on a project that fundamentally changes our neighbourhood.
Our Demands to the District of Oak Bay:

What We Are Asking:

Halt Construction until an independent engineering study confirms our sewage system can handle this 400% increase in load.
Review the Scale: Re-evaluate how buildings this large qualify as "accessory" units under our local bylaws.
Future Engagement: Commit to formal notification for all future proposals on Woodburn Avenue so we are never left in the dark again.
Please sign to help us protect the character, safety, and infrastructure of our community.

Please sign to make our voices heard, help us protect the character, safety, and infrastructure of our community.