Campers who have made a temporary home out of Centennial Square will have to vacate the space and relocate by Sept. 1.
The City of Victoria’s director of parks, recreation and facilities has executed an order to close parts of Centennial Square.
The parks regulation bylaws allow the closure of parks and open spaces where hazardous conditions exist.
“We recognize every person has the right to shelter and that COVID-19 has exacerbated the challenges faced by vulnerable populations; however, Centennial Square has become entrenched with a criminal element that demands greater action to protect the public, businesses and those seeking shelter,” Sheldon Johnson, the city’s manager of engagement, said in a statement.
The encampment has attracted drug trafficking and violence. Last week, Victoria police noted 17 people face drug-trafficking charges in connection with a drug ring operating out of the tents in the square.
Police have also been called to two stabbings and multiple assaults in the square this month.
In his statement, Johnson said once the campers have been relocated, the site will be cleaned and remediated and landscape restoration will take place.
