Environmental Impact

Sustainability

The proposal's core focus is on sustainable site development by proposing an infill development within a walkable neighborhood center, while also preserving key landscape and heritage elements. We have embraced an integrated design approach which ensures that sustainability is taken into account in every aspect of the design process, from the initial stages to completion.

The building will incorporate sustainable building features including:

• An energy efficient building form
• High-performance building systems
• Intentional placement of windows for natural daylight and views
• Fixtures and equipment material considerations for providing a healthy indoor environment

The Arborist Report

Urban forestry consultants, Gye and Associates have provided guiding arborist services for the project, with specific requests to examine the health of the London Plane trees and develop protocols for the development to avoid any damaging impacts on existing trees.

Five mature London Plane trees are located along the west boundary of the site, and all five are protected by the District of Saanich’s current Tree Preservation Bylaw (No. 9272), and listed under Schedule B as “significant trees”.

Two separate on-site excavation assessments were carried out by the arborist to confirm root zones, root depth, canopy, soil condition, and other site factors that may affect the trees, including the viability of installing the driveway off Shawnee Road.

The assessment found:

• These trees currently exhibit good health and reasonable structure and form.
• The trees are notable for their stature, historical value, and the protected status accorded them by the community through the District of Saanich.
• It is speculated the lack of tree roots beyond the seven-metre radius into the parking area can be attributed to the lack of nutrients and water beneath the hard surface.

The conclusion from the analysis indicates a driveway crossing off Shawnee Road is viable.

The following should be noted:

• The most rooting activity appears to be concentrated along the vegetated embankment.
• Any site planning for future development should respect these boundaries.
• A boulevard crossing and entranceway into the site from Shawnee Road is conceptually viable if it can be designed to bridge over the root stratum noted above.
• The health of the five “significant trees” will benefit from renovation of the fill conditions within the rooted area east of the trees.

[A full copy of the report button]

In addition, our goal for the project is to make people want to live here by promoting alternative transportation modes and a lifestyle that does not rely on cars. Read more about this walkable community with no cars needed.