We, the undersigned residents and community members, strongly oppose the proposed redevelopment of 1806 San Juan Avenue (St. Dunstan’s Church) into a dual six-story apartment complex.

This massive project is out of scale, out of character, and out of touch with the needs and values of our neighborhood.

Why We’re Concerned
Out of Character with the Neighborhood
Saanich’s Official Community Plan (OCP) and Development Permit Area guidance expect development to “design buildings to the human scale” and to “consider neighborhood context and character” when deciding form and height. This proposal is incompatible with the surrounding single-family and low-rise fabric.  Our community is defined by its modest, low-rise homes and neighborhood charm. A pair of six-story buildings would drastically alter the visual and cultural fabric of the area, setting a precedent for unchecked high-density development.

Increased Traffic and Safety Risks
San Juan area corridors have documented speed and crash concerns: the Saanich Road Safety Action Plan identifies the Gordon Head Road – San Juan Avenue corridor for attention and records high speeds and crash types that make this area sensitive to increases in local traffic. Rapid intensification without adequate safety mitigation will increase danger for all residents. The intersection near St. Dunstan’s is already busy and challenging to navigate, especially for pedestrians, schoolchildren, and seniors. Adding hundreds of new residents and vehicles would significantly worsen traffic congestion and safety hazards. 

Parking and Infrastructure Strain
Our existing streets and parking resources are already stretched thin. This development would exacerbate the shortage, impacting residents, local businesses, and visitors alike. Utilities, waste management, and public services would also face additional pressure. The Active Transportation Plan specifically identifies San Juan Greenway improvements on San Juan Avenue (a corridor intended for safer walking and cycling). It also identifies this area as a high frequency recreation destination.  Placing high-intensity urban density development here could increase vehicle volumes, undermining the Active Transportation Plan’s goals for safe, comfortable active travel.

Loss of Community Character and Open Space
St. Dunstan’s has long been a community landmark. Its replacement with high-rise apartments would represent the loss of an important community gathering place and a shift toward a denser, less livable urban environment.

What We’re Asking For
We urge city officials and planning authorities to:

• Reject or reconsider the proposed development in its current form;
• Preserve the character and livability of our neighborhood; and
• Engage with local residents to find more balanced, community-friendly alternatives for the site.

Our Neighborhood Deserves Better
We believe in responsible, sustainable development that respects the scale, safety, and spirit of our community. Please join us in standing up for our neighborhood and stopping this inappropriate overdevelopment at 1806 San Juan Avenue.

Sign this petition to show your support for a livable, safe, and community-centered future for our area.  People living outside of Saanich are eligible to sign - please state in the comments how this development affects you!