Published 13 days ago • loading... • Updated 13 days ago

'How did we not know?': City blunder puts Vancouver Island park plans at risk

The City of Colwood discovered in 2025 that the 12-hectare Colwood Creek Park is subject to Agricultural Land Reserve restrictions affecting its planned enhancements.
The city planned nearly $2 million for park improvements under the 2025-2029 Capital Plan but overlooked ALR limits that restrict amenities larger than 100 square metres.
Although the city believed passive recreation was exempt, the Agricultural Land Commission clarified that intensifying park facilities exceeds ALR allowances, risking removal of features like the spray and play park.
Chief Administrative Officer Jason Johnson reported that the Agricultural Land Commission indicated the proposed increase in park activities exceeds what is permitted within the Agricultural Land Reserve, prompting councillors to ask staff for additional guidance on potential application options.
This oversight may endanger Colwood Creek Park's existing amenities, prompting concerns about future development and calls for public explanation of potential losses if features disappear.

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