Re: “Growth strategy delicate balance,” editorial, Dec. 11.
The sobering and depressing editorial described the Capital Regional District’s regional growth strategy, and the dismal future that lies ahead for Victoria because of it and the massive population growth that is expected here over the next 20 years.
The proposed strategy would prevent the growth of the urban area outward, and confine it to upward and inward developments. In other words, it is intended to make our city more densely populated.
The harmful effects of infill development and densification are notorious. More people added to the same confined space will mean increased motor vehicle traffic and congestion, reduction and elimination of available on-street parking, increased noise, loss of green space, a reduction in the quality of our neighbourhoods and increased crime.
All levels of government must take steps to protect the quality of life that we have in our urban areas.
The provincial government needs to prevent non-residents of our country from purchasing residential property. Non-residents don’t live here and should have no right to own a home here.
Municipal governments in the CRD must protect the livability of our city, and must reject a growth strategy that is harmful to it.
We have a right to protect what we have and enjoy in our city, and must demand that our governments take steps to do that.
Bruce Filan
Oak Bay
