Colwood is working with environmental, archeological, engineering and landscape professionals who have extensive experience in Green Shores restoration to create a Waterfront Stewardship Plan. The plan is intended to bring forward thoughtful, environmental design concepts to protect the highly sensitive wildlife habitat and archeological resources while providing accessibility that directs visitors and activities to the most appropriate areas.
Colwood's waterfront offers some of the most incredible access to the ocean, beach and unique ecological areas like Esquimalt Lagoon National Migratory Bird Sanctuary. Unfortunately this often means people enjoy this access without understanding what is underfoot, nesting nearby or living under water.
Dive into the details and offer your input
The City is seeking your input to help draft the plan that will be presented to Colwood Council and inform decisions about Colwood's waterfront over the next 10+ years.
You are encouraged to take the time to learn more and share your thoughts on early concepts at LetsTalkColwood.ca
For example:
- A multi-use pathway along the length of the waterfront with a raised boardwalk in sections may protect sensitive nesting areas and provide a safe and accessible walking and cycling route while being responsive to the impacts of a changing coastline due to rising sea levels.
- Directing events away from sensitive areas toward existing parks or established gathering places may allow for programmed activities that recognize the unique culture and history of the area while limiting impacts to wildlife habitats.
- Finding the balance between the need for vehicle access and parking with safe and enjoyable pedestrian and cycling access may optimize opportunities for both ecological protection and enjoyment of the area.
Join us for in depth conversations
The team will be out and about through the summer and into the fall to share information, answer questions and have conversations about the concepts. Join us on the following dates, with more opportunities to come:
- Friday, August 6 from 6 to 8 pm at Herm Williams Park alongside the Music in the Park event
- Saturday, August 14 from 5 to 7 pm at the Lagoon Beach alongside Beach Food activities
- Wednesday, August 18 from 7 to 9 am at the Lagoon Beach
- Saturday, August 21 from 5 to 7 pm at the Lagoon Beach
- Saturday, August 28 from 5 to 7 pm at the Lagoon Beach
- Additional dates to come for booths around town and at local shops and services through the fall
Please take the time to read all the information offered, consider the values expressed by the community for our waterfront, and provide informed feedback to help shape the plan. We look forward to healthy and respectful discussion of the many differing perspectives about how best to proceed.
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Media contact
Sandra Russell, Communications Manager
srussell@colwood.ca
Find this release online at www.colwood.ca/News
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