Exploring Civic Redevelopment

Update on the Redevelopment of 1903 Mt. Newton Cross Road

The District of Central Saanich is advancing the redevelopment of 1903 Mount Newton Cross Road, the current Municipal Hall site, to ensure the land delivers strong community benefit and long‑term value. 

The 4-acre site, the current site of the municipal building, will be reimagined with a mix of commercial spaces, housing and community amenities. The site is expected to be able to include approximately 400 homes. Traffic studies and planning will take place to ensure the development is well‑supported by infrastructure, minimizes neighbourhood impacts, and integrates safely and efficiently into the surrounding transportation network.

Site design vision

• A mixed-use development that contributes to the vibrancy of the Saanichton Village and surrounding area
• A mix of 4-6 storey building heights to balance/create steps from neighbouring properties 
• Minimize potential impacts on neighbouring properties
• Maximize community amenities, including public outdoor space
• Increase housing supply in a village centre
• Create a high-quality pedestrian environment

The District is relocating Central Saanich's Municipal Hall, Police Station and Fire Station 2 (a satellite station) to Hovey Road at Wallace Drive, adjacent to Centennial Park. The District is working with the Capital Regional District to include a 10,000 sq ft recreation facility operated by Peninsula Recreation Commission on the ground floor.

The District has already advanced major preparatory steps for the new facility, including schematic design work and public engagement on initial design. HCMA architects are refining schematic designs, before construction drawings and refined costing are complete. The project has been initially costed (a Class D estimate) and includes a 30% contingency. 

As the project moves into the next phases, here is what residents can expect:

Fall 2026: Anticipated groundbreaking on new facilities

Winter 2028: Anticipated completion of new facilities

With funding, design, and partnerships in place, and the project embedded in the District’s multi‑year capital program, the construction timeline anticipates facility completion in Winter 2028.

The session will: 

• be an opportunity for direct neighbours of 1903 Mt Newton Cross Road to provide feedback to Council prior to the next steps of the redevelopment, and
• include an overview of the process and timelines and guidance on how the public will be invited to provide input in the next phases of the project. 

Please join us Monday, January 26, 2026, 5:00pm-7:00 pm in Council Chambers at Central Saanich Municipal Hall

The District of Central Saanich's new municipal facilities will be built on Hovey Road across from Centennial Park with plans to include a recreation centre operated by the Peninsula Recreation Commission (PRC).  

The three-storey building will house Central Saanich’s police station, fire station 2, municipal hall and the recreation centre. Designed by HCMA, the building’s architecture was well received by the community.  

Council selected the Hovey Road concept after considering a range of options, financial plans, community feedback, and how the project complements the District’s Official Community Plan and Saanichton Village Design Plan.  

There was strong community support for replacing the municipal facilities, and the Hovey Road concept was the most popular of the four options. Residents valued the inclusion of recreation amenities, gathering spaces, and the preservation of village and rural character.

The PRC is exploring a 10,000 square foot dry space recreation centre, which would be located on the first floor, and could potentially include a weight room, an arts studio, and flexible multi-purpose spaces for programs ranging from children’s activities to fitness classes. The cost of building and operating the centre would be funded by the PRC, pending approval by the Capital Regional District (CRD) Board. The PRC, which operates the Panorama Recreation Centre in North Saanich and Greenglade Community Centre in Sidney, has been looking for a dedicated space in Central Saanich to accommodate a growing need for more recreation spaces and programs.

The 4-acre site on the corner of Mt. Newton Cross Road and Wallace Drive, the current site of the municipal building, will be reimagined with a mix of commercial spaces, housing and community amenities. The priorities for the site identified by residents include: housing with a focus on families and seniors, greenspaces, a plaza, eateries and small-scale commercial, medical/dental and childcare. The District will publish a public call for proposals for development of 1903 Mt Newton seeking medical offices and other amenities to be included. The proposals will be evaluated by Council for fit with the community.

Quotes 
Ryan Windsor, Mayor of Central Saanich

“This isn’t just a facility, it’s revitalizing our community for generations to come. I would like to thank those who shared their time and input on the concepts that were before Council. We listened to the community and I am really pleased with what we are able to accomplish in terms of bringing more services and housing to the Village core and finding a financial model that is going to benefit residents.”

Niall Paltiel, Chair of the Peninsula Recreation Commission

“We’re excited to work with the District of Central Saanich on the possibility of bringing a new recreation centre to the community. This project would help us reach more people across the peninsula and provide programs where they’re needed most. With new spaces for fitness, arts, and community activities, we hope to offer residents of Central Saanich more opportunities to stay active, connect, and have fun.”  

Central Saanich Council has released background information and reports on the Civic Redevelopment Project. 

Some content has been withheld due to sensitive areas, including police services, proprietary business information, third-party data, and ongoing negotiations related to land values. 

This release is intended to ensure public transparency while safeguarding the District's legal and financial interests. As the reports span several years, project details may have shifted, affecting the accuracy of earlier information.  In the past, Freedom of Information Requests led to some information being withheld for legal reasons, although summaries were provided. 

More information may be added as the project progresses.

Council appreciates the public’s patience and welcomes ongoing feedback.

Reports added June 2025 to the Documents folder on this site include:

• Feasibility Study (Land Analysis) 2023
• Concept Design Report (2025)
• Building Assessment Report (2025)
  
  
  
   

On behalf of Central Saanich Council, I would like to address questions from some members of the community about the necessity of the civic redevelopment project to replace our District facilities. 

We have known for many years that replacing the existing Municipal Hall, Police Station, Fire Station 2, and Municipal Yard is essential for the long-term health and sustainability of our community. Our current facilities have reached the end of their useful lives. The buildings have safety, seismic and accessibility deficiencies and consistently require expensive repairs while being inefficient to operate and not fully meeting the needs of our operations and residents.  

Preliminary analysis has shown that developing new facilities will be both a better return on investment and less disruptive to operations than a renovation/expansion. Based on community feedback, we are seeking costing on options including redevelopment at Hovey (options with and without recreation space) and at Mount Newton Cross Road, as well as a comprehensive study of our current building. The District has studied various scenarios, consulted with residents, and been fiscally responsible over many years to ensure this project will not be a burden on taxpayers and will make the best use of community assets. A new building will ensure uninterrupted essential services and support to the community during emergencies, while being accessible, customer-service oriented, energy efficient, and meet post-seismic standards. New facilities will also create more space for community amenities, such as housing, recreation spaces, daycare facilities, and commercial or medical offices.   

One important goal of this project is ensuring that 1903 Mount Newton Cross Road, the largest site in Saanichton Village and current home to our municipal building, becomes a cornerstone of our community. The vision of mixed-use development in the village has been established over many years and through significant community consultation (Infill and Densification Project, Saanichton Village Design Plan and Official Community Plan). This site provides an incredible opportunity to help achieve that vision, creating community connection with a place for residents to live, attend local shops and services, and enjoy public outdoor space that’s accessible and welcoming.   

I appreciate the patience residents have shown as we navigate the complexities and land matters of this project, including the purchase of Lot A Hovey Road through expropriation. This was a difficult and significant council decision that we made after significant analysis. Now that this and other important project milestones are complete, detailed project concepts and the comprehensive study of our existing building will help Council and the community work together to ensure we are on the right track as we finalize our plans to redevelop these facilities.   

Council and our staff are committed to being transparent, open and available to you. On February 28, the District published our 2025 Financial Plan, including our approach to financing the project. We are pleased to share the civic redevelopment financing envisions no additional increases to property taxes, as it is included in our current asset management plan, and we look forward to sharing the concepts and detailed financials in May.   

Please take the time to learn more and share your thoughts as we make progress on this project and continue engagement opportunities. Significant information and an ability to subscribe to project updates is available at LetsTalkCentralSaanich.ca/CivicRedevelopment. Together, we can build a community that meets our needs today and for future generations.  

Ryan Windsor, Mayor  
On behalf of Central Saanich Council 

With key initial project milestones achieved, such as the acquisition of Hovey Road Lot A and hiring an architectural firm, the District is moving on to creating concepts and detailed financial plans for the community to weigh in on this spring. 

Happening Now 

Share your input on 1903 Mount Newton ‘Design Principles’
Council wants to hear from residents on the direction for the future of 1903 Mt Newton Cross Road, the largest site in Saanichton Village. This site can help shape our community for decades, and it’s important we have a shared vision. 
Take a quick survey to share your input! 
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/1903MtNewton

Architectural firm designing concepts for public input
HCMA, an architecture and design firm, has been hired to design concepts that will include municipal offices, fire and police facilities, as well as community/recreation space. Notable projects include Victoria Fire Station No. 1, Saanich Fire Station No. 2, təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre in New Westminster, and Whistler Public Library.  

Happening Soon  

Come chat with Council to share your ideas
Join us Saturday, February 22, at 2:00 pm for Coffee with Council in Room A, Cultural Centre 1209 Clarke Road. 

Concepts to be developed for public input in April 2025 
HCMA, the architects on the project, will provide completed drawings and ‘Class D’ cost estimates for three options:

• Civic facility at Hovey Rd
• Civic facility at Hovey Rd, including recreation facilities
• Civic facility at 1903 Mount Newton 

Comprehensive external report on state of the facility
The District has more than 20 studies and reports spanning two decades on 1903 Mt Newton. An updated report with detail on the condition of the hall, police station and fire station 2, including required renovations to meet seismic, post-disaster, accessibility, fire suppression, building code, and energy standards. 

Please stay engaged on this exciting project! Community input will help Council determine the best way to redevelop these facilities with minimal impact on taxpayers. 

The District is committed to continue engaging with the community. In the first phase of engagement, residents asked for more information about the project and the District is taking steps to ensure the community is well informed.

Project updates:
Public input sought on 1903 Mount Newton Design Principles. Council wants to hear directly from residents on its direction for the future of 1903 Mt Newton Cross Road, the largest site in Saanichton Village. This site is a significant community asset and its important Council and the community have a shared vision for its future. How do you think this community asset should be developed eventually? 

Come chat with Council to share your ideas

• Saturday, January 25, 10:00 am-noon – New Years Open House at 1903 Mt Newton Cross Rd
• Saturday, February 22, 2:00 pm – Coffee with Council in Room A, Cultural Centre (location of Library),1209 Clarke Road.

Architectural firm hired December 11, 2024. HCMA has been hired to design concepts, which will be presented to the community in April. The concepts will include municipal offices, fire and police facilities, as well as community/recreation space. HCMA is a Vancouver-based architecture and design firm with offices in Edmonton and Victoria. Some notable HCMA projects include Victoria Fire Station No. 1, Saanich Fire Station No. 2, təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre in New Westminster, and Whistler Public Library. This recommendation complies with the District’s Purchasing Policy and awards the highest evaluated and scored submission.

Concepts to be developed for April 2025. The architects will provide completed drawings and ‘Class D’ cost estimates for three options:

1. Civic facility at Hovey Rd.
2. Civic facility at Hovey Rd, including recreation facilities
3. Civic facility at 1903 Mount Newton

Comprehensive external report to be complete for the spring. An updated report collating, updating and building on previous studies will detail the condition of the existing hall, police station and fire station 2, including the level of renovation required to meet seismic, post-disaster, accessibility, fire suppression, building code, and energy standards.

Key initial project milestones have now been achieved, such as the acquisition of Hovey and hiring an architectural firm. As we move forward together, we have the time and certainty needed to thoroughly evaluate our options. This ensures we remain on track as Council and the community work together to decide the best way to redevelop these facilities. 

We want to say thank you to all those who have participated in the first phase of the Civic Redevelopment engagement process.
We are grateful to those who listened, learned and shared input and feedback on this multi-faceted project. Your input helps staff and Council make informed decisions, and will shape future concepts.

What did we hear?  

• What We Heard Report, October 2024
• Staff Report - October 7, 2024, Regular Council Meeting

How can you get involved: Subscribe for project updates and get involved in early 2025 when draft concepts and financial estimates are ready!

The District of Central Saanich has begun the process of purchasing ‘Lot A, Hovey Road’ for the full appraised price of $4.64M. This is significant milestone in the District’s civic redevelopment project, which is a comprehensive plan to update aging District facilities to ensure they meet the current and future needs of Central Saanich’s growing community. The project includes plans for the District’s municipal services, including police and fire, to move to a new site on Hovey Road and reimagine the current site at 1903 Mt Newton Cross Rd in the heart of Saanichton Village. 

Purchase Price for ‘Lot A’

In April 2024 the District issued a Notice of Expropriation for ‘Lot A’, which is key to the civic redevelopment project, both financially and from a land-use perspective. Before taking the significant step to expropriate, the District first made multiple attempts to purchase the property for more than the appraised value at the time of $3.1 million, but negotiations came to an end without an agreement on a price for the property.

The full appraised price of $4.64M is being paid to the landowner, based on an updated appraisal that was recently completed. The land value has increased due to a recent adjacent land sale, increases in other land prices and changing market conditions. It is anticipated that the $4.64M price may be disputed, which would result in a standard legal process wherein a judge would determine the final market value.

What’s next for this property?

‘Lot A, Hovey Road’ will officially be transferred to the District this summer regardless of a potential challenge to the price. The anticipated project timeline prioritizes time for community engagement and concept development while being efficient to ensure construction cost estimates and financial models are affordable and current. 

July-October 2024 

• Community Engagement 
• Set initial directions for draft concepts and financial models 
• Hire architect and construction manager for Hovey site

Early 2025 

• Develop and share concepts, options and financial strategies with community for feedback 
• Refine concepts 

Mid 2025 

• Voter process (Alternative Approval Process or Referendum), if required for financial borrowing

• 2006: District begins to review options for the Municipal Hall redevelopment, which included the Fire and Police Stations.
• 2009: Fire Station rebuild prioritized at the new location at 1512 Keating Cross Road; it was completed in 2013. Seismic review and property condition assessments completed.
• 2012: Open house held to present redevelopment plans for 1903 Mt Newton.
• 2014: Council considers options for 1903 Mt Newton Cross Road, including the sale of approximately 3 acres for market residential and mixed-use commercial. Council directs an expedited repayment of Fire Station #1 debt and postpones further work on redevelopment of the Municipal Hall site until the Fire Hall debt closer to being paid off.
• 2021: A feasibility study for replacement or renewal was identified in the District’s 2021-2022 Strategic Priorities.
• 2023: District begins a study for the replacement or renewal of key municipal facilities: the Municipal Hall including Police Services and Fire Hall #2 and the Municipal Works Yard. The approach is based on the principles of ensuring the project has the lowest financial impact as possible on the District, and utilizing District properties to their full potential for the community, consistent with recent plans, such as the Official Community Plan.
• 2024: Preliminary financial estimates developed; Hovey Road Lot A acquired; community engagement in summer/fall 2024.
• 2025: Community engagement on redevelopment mixed-use principles for 1903 Mt Newton Cross Road (in whole or part). Concepts and financial plan to be shared with the community. 

What will this project cost tax payers?

There is no anticipated additional increases to property taxes as a result of this project. Because this project was identified as coming due almost 20 years ago, we are in a strong financial position.

How will the project be funded? 

The project will be paid for through reserves (savings), land sales and debt. Building at Hovey required the least amount of reserves and 1903 Mt Newton provide significant land sale revenue. Debt borrowing is approved by the province for $33.5M. 

How is the District managing the risk of cost overruns? The District has used conservative estimates on land sales and built in a 30% contingency. A new build at Hovey Rd was determined the lowest risk of cost overrun.

Will there be community input on this project? There have been many opportunities for input, and will continue to be more. The District has incorporated community feedback received so far into the project, including considering an option to rebuild on Mt Newton Cross Road. Several key plans—such as the Official Community Plan and the Saanichton Village Design Plan—developed through extensive public engagement have also shaped the strategy for redevelopment.

What is the timeline and status of the project? The project began in 2006 and has started and stopped over the years. The timeline for the next year is to work with the community to determine plans for the sites, minimize the impact on tax-payers, and hold a process for voters to approve debt. As a community, if we don't act quickly on this project, it will no longer be affordable, or likely possible, due to rising construction costs. 

2024  

• Community outreach on project: Set initial directions for draft concepts following community outreach 
• Hire architect for Hovey site for concepts 

January - February 2025

• Engage community on 1903 Mt Newton Cross Road - Site Design Principles

June-August 2025 

• Develop and share concepts, options and financial strategies with community for feedback 

Fall 2025

• Research survey (conducted by Deloitte) to gather community input on options and borrowing
• Refine concepts and Council to select a preferred option

Winter/Early 2026

• 1903 Mt Newton development: Council to hear from immediate neighbours, publish a public call for expression of interest from developers, publish a public call for development proposals