A planned access hub in Victoria's North Park neighborhood is facing scrutiny for alleged zoning violations. The $1.8 million project, aimed at providing support services for Victoria's street community, has ignited controversy among residents who claim a structure erected on the property violates city regulations.
A structure built inside the fence line for an upcoming access hub in Victoria's North Park neighborhood is deemed a violation of zoning bylaws by the city. The $1.8 million access hub , announced last summer for 2155 Dowler Place, will be operated by SOLID Outreach, offering access to harm reduction services, employment support, and housing case management. However, the project has sparked controversy due to its location and the services it aims to provide for Victoria's street community.
'It's kind of a slap in the face to any resident of Victoria,' stated Gary Streight, a North Park resident. Residents have raised concerns that the structure erected within the access hub's fence line violates city zoning laws and building regulations. Streight, also an architect, asserts that an accessory building situated inside the fence line encroaches on both private and public property and is excessively large for an allowable accessory building. He contends that accessory buildings are akin to garden sheds, permitted only on designated portions of a property. 'Zoning would not allow an accessory building in the side yard and the fact that it straddles more than two properties, it's just not something that zoning would allow either,' explained Streight. Furthermore, he states that accessory buildings must be less than 10 square meters; anything larger necessitates a building permit. Streight claims the structure measures approximately 60 square meters. Although a fence is in place, both the structure and the fence partially occupy public property, requiring additional permits. Regarding the access hub, city regulations stipulate that accessory buildings must be situated in the rear yard of the property. 'If the city is going to support this initiative, it needs to be within the rules and regulations,' expressed the resident. The City of Victoria confirmed that the structure is non-compliant and that no permit will be issued until the Chief Building Inspector deems it compliant. SOLID Outreach informed CHEK News that it has engaged in ongoing discussions with city staff concerning various aspects of this project. 'A healthy back and forth between our architects and the City is ongoing, and is completely normal at this stage of the project,' stated SOLID Outreach in a release. 'We will continue working with the city, and our neighbors, to ensure this project is compliant, and serves the best interests of those seeking help in transitioning out of street life.' The access hub, initially scheduled to open last summer, has encountered delays. A new opening date remains unannounced
VICTORIA NORTH PARK ACCESS HUB SOLID OUTREACH ZONING VIOLATIONS BUILDING REGULATIONS RESIDENT CONCERNS
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