If all goes as planned, a proposed development for Sooke Road could result in a realignment of Glen Lake Road to Sooke Road at the Happy Valley intersection.
A concept for the new intersection shows Glen Lake Road closed where it meets Sooke Road now and traffic re-routed down a new extension of the roadway that would meet at Happy Valley Road. This new four-way signalized intersection is proposed to feature two drive lanes, a dedicated left turn lane at Sooke Road, bike lanes, street lighting, a red brick sidewalk and more.
“That would be the biggest bonus if that development goes through,” said Langford Coun. Denise Blackwell. She added the developer would be responsible for that cost in exchange for some relaxation of development cost charges. “It’ll make it much safer … people try to go around,” she explained, noting the Galloping Goose Regional Trail will also be rerouted so it’s safer for users.
The roughly five-acre site, which includes 2682, 2684, 2686, 2696, 2702 and 2706 Sooke Rd., is owned by Oakcrest Park Estates Ltd. and is located along the north side of Sooke Road near Glen Lake Road and is bordered by the Galloping Goose. The majority of the site is vacant with the exception of two commercial buildings.
Niall Paltiel of Keycorp Planning Ltd. has applied on behalf of Oakcrest Park Estates to rezone the site from commercial zoning to community town centre pedestrian (C9) to allow for mixed-used development that would include high density residential as well as commercial units.
A concept plan for the site includes a three-storey building at the corner of the new Sooke and Glen Lake intersection which may include retail and office space.
Along Sooke Road, the plan calls for ground level commercial with residential units above. Buildings at the rear of the site are earmarked for residential with the possibility of some rental housing.
The proposal was brought to the City of Langford’s planning, zoning and affordable housing committee on Monday. But Blackwell, chair of the committee, noted no residents showed up to the meeting to voice any concerns, questions or support for the project.
“Members of the committee were saying it looks really nice,” she noted.
The development proposal will go to council next Monday for first reading with the committee’s recommendations. Blackwell noted if it’s given first reading, a public hearing will follow in the coming weeks, but that could be slightly delayed as the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will have to be updated as it has jurisdiction over the roadway.
