A new development will add life to the Four Corners village where Cloverdale turns into Cook at Quadra Street.
Backfit, a local chiropractic clinic, was approved by Saanich council on Monday to move forward with the expansion and renovation of the vacant Bank of Montreal building at 3481 Cook St.
Council voted to accept staff’s recommendation, a detailed report that shows a long commitment from the development group, Futurefit holdings.
The project will extend the building on both sides while rejuvenating the boulevard on all three fronts along Cook Street, Clovelly Terrace and Cobb Lane. Cobb Lane will also be expanded 1.5 metres.
The development neighbours a small one-storey medical clinic.
BCLC could roll the dice on Saanich casino
Saanich will throw its name into the conversation for a new casino.
The B.C. Lottery Corporation contacted Saanich earlier this month with a letter to Mayor Richard Atwell saying there is “gaming market potential” in the community.
Council voted in favour of expressing interest, Atwell said.
“We’re just saying we’d like to be part of the consideration process, it’s still very early.”
BCLC’s interest should come as no surprise. Saanich is the biggest municipality on the Island with a fairly well-to-do population and central location.
It’s also no secret the state gambling agency is looking to expand into Greater Victoria. (Saanich isn’t the only city being wooed.)
Saanich would receive 10 per cent of the net income generated by a facility.
BCLC has requested a response by Dec. 11.
Program targets invasive plants
The Horticultural Centre of the Pacific is hosting a day-long workshop that focuses on limiting the spread of invasive plants.
Members of the horticultural industry, master gardeners and the community at large are welcome to attend Tuesday’s free sessions based on the PlantWise program.
Among the speakers is Gail Wallin, executive director of the Invasive Species Council of B.C.
Topics include transitioning toward invasive-free practices, the local governments managing invasive species and discussion on existing species of concern and how to address them collaboratively.
It’s estimated invasive species cost Canada between $16.6 billion and $34.5 billion per year in increased maintenance costs to public parks and private property, devaluing real estate.
The workshops run Tuesday (Oct. 27) from 8:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific, 505 Quayle Rd.