Overview
In January 2010, the City of Victoria began a comprehensive process to update its Official Community Plan (OCP). The City’s plan was last updated in 1995.
Shaped by more than 6,000 citizens, the new plan brings forward a more current and sustainable approach to community planning. It reflects the community’s desire for walkable neighbourhoods, a vibrant downtown core, and to celebrate Victoria’s unique character and sense of place. It also takes a new approach to local area planning, focussing on areas of major change.
The new plan also reflects new provincial legislation, requiring Official Community Plans to include policies that address affordable and special needs housing, as well as to establish targets for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Council, staff, and the community will use the plan as a guide for decisions such as where to locate housing and businesses, what the communities transportation priorities are, and how to address aging infrastructure.
Over the next 30 years, Victoria is expected to grow by approximately 20,000 new residents and 10,000 new jobs. The new Official Community Plan will guide growth and change in the years ahead, while maintaining and preserving the special places and features that are unique and valued in the community.
While the new Official Community Plan is a 30 year plan, it will act as a living document, which will be updated regularly, ensuring it responds to emerging trends and priorities.
