PRESENT > Rezoning > Overview

The 632-hectare Bamberton lands are currently zoned for heavy- industrial and forestry (logging) purposes. Since 2005, the current property owners (Bamberton Properties LLP) have worked to have this zoning changed to permit light industry, commercial, residential and park uses.

Since 2005, Bamberton Properties LLP has spent more than $30 Million on the site, and has:

1. Dismantled and cleaned up the former Bamberton cement plant in what is now known as one of the most extensive privately funded environmental remediations in BC history.
2. Undergone extensive public consultation and listened to the community.
3. Worked closely with the CVRD for almost 7 years and made every attempt to align plans for Bamberton with the vision of the region.
4. Undergone an extensive review by an outside consultant (Trillium Report).
5. Developed good relationships with are First Nations and most local community groups.

After years of studies and planning, Bamberton submitted a substantial plan for 'comprehensive mixed used zoning' in November 2006. At that time, our hope had been to create a world-leading, sustainable, 'live, work, play' community at Bamberton, based on our team's successes building Dockside Green in Victoria. This rezoning application was resubmitted to the CVRD at the end of 2007 and, after a lengthy review, numerous revisions and amendments, the CVRD rejected it in December of 2010, mainly on the basis that it would be difficult for the CVRD to manage and administer a project of such scope and size. While the CVRD commended Bamberton on the ingenuity and sustainability of the plan, it was too large and complex for a small local government to manage, and with too many variables to forecast. Additionally, the CVRD determined that they already had sufficient residential property entitled to meet their immediate needs.

After the comprehensive community plan was rejected, Bamberton's team continued to work with the CVRD to determine a plan that would fit into the community's desire for the area. After an additional year of discussions and further study, we have now submitted a rezoning proposal that reflects a revised plan for Bamberton. The focus of the current application is to augment Bamberton's current industrial zoning with areas for commercial and light industrial uses. This path will create an economic engine to help support the Southern portion of the CVRD, and help with the natural growth of the community.

This new application would also see a portion of the Southlands (McCurdy Point) dedicated as Parkland to the CVRD and also (by covenant) protect a larger approximately 270-acre portion of the Southlands from logging and development.