Public Engagement Summary on Industrial Land Use:
Community feedback highlighted a desire for thoughtful, community-informed planning that protects Central Saanich’s rural identity while accommodating economic needs. Transportation and infrastructure improvements were identified as key to supporting industrial growth without compromising livability.
Participants supported concentrating industrial activity within existing zones, particularly around Keating Business District (KBD), to minimize environmental and traffic impacts, and also emphasized the need for clear definitions of industrial uses and better alignment with regional growth strategies. In a survey, 55% of respondents agreed with limiting residential uses in the KBD to preserve industrial operations. There was significant support for increasing allowable building heights to accommodate modern industrial needs, such as high-efficiency warehouses.
Concerns were raised about balancing economic development with community character and sustainability, with calls for green infrastructure and low-impact industries. There was also interest in supporting local employment opportunities and small businesses, while discouraging heavy industry and large-scale operations that could disrupt residential areas. There was strong interest in preserving agricultural land and limiting industrial expansion into rural areas.
See the What We Heard Report for a more fulsome summary.