Friday, March 29, 2024

Here’s what the proposed redevelopment of University Heights in Saanich could look like

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Home Depot will be sticking around in Saanich, the developer of the new University Heights Shopping Centre plan announced on Thursday.

The announcement comes after Wesbild Holdings, the company behind a massive redevelopment planned for the area, had put their plans on hold to negotiate with Home Depot, which currently has an outlet at the mall.

Following negotiations, Home Depot will be included in Wesbild’s plans, and will also receive an expansion to its operation of 10,000 square feet of space.

This new expansion will encompass the area that currently houses the Home Depot’s garden centre. Wesbild says a new garden centre will be attached to the expansion, onto the area which currently serves as parking on the north end of the property.

University Heights Internal
(rendering by Wesbild)

“We are pleased to re-introduce this important project which will enhance the community with permanent rental homes, affordable rental suites, much needed daycare spaces and transit infrastructure,” said Wesbild President and CEO Kevin Layden.

“Pausing the project to sort out procedural details was the right decision and ensures this development is on solid footing.”

The negotiated agreement is expected to also allow Home Depot to remain open throughout construction.

Wesbild first submitted their application for redevelopment of the University Heights Shopping Centre in late 2017.

In January 2018, the plan was to begin renovations in 2020.

Under Wesbild’s latest revised timeline and redevelopment plan, construction is expected to begin in 2022, with the mall fully open by Spring 2024.

University Heights Aerial
(rendering by Wesbild)

The plan calls for 597 permanent rental homes, 60 affordables rental suites, up to 11,000 square feet of daycare space, cycling infrastructure, a public plaza, and a B.C. Transit hub and EV charging infrastructure.

All of this will be in addition to a modernized, new commercial space.

Wesbild says the project is expected to generate $410 million to the local economy, creating 309 construction jobs and 209 permanent positions.

“This valuable project received widespread community support previously and we are hoping that will continue as we re-start consultations with our neighbours,” Layden said.

“This re-submission couldn’t have happened without the leadership of Mayor Fred Haynes and the guidance of the District of Saanich planning team. We are sincerely grateful.”

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Victoria Buzz Staffhttps://www.victoriabuzz.com
Your inside source for Greater Victoria happenings. Established in 2012.

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