Rezoning of a green space in Sooke’s town centre for commercial use has been green-lit by Sooke council after a three-hour public hearing this week.
Members of the Friends of Sooke Parks Society had opposed the rezoning, saying it was the only green space in the immediate area.
The 0.4-acre parcel known as Lions Park, which used to have a playground, has been owned by the Sooke Lions Club since 1964, but the club wants to sell it to the Sea to Tree Health & Wellness Centre for a counselling business.
District of Sooke staff had recommended that the rezoning be permitted.
Sooke Mayor Maja Tait said Sea to Tree has indicated it doesn’t intend to develop the land to shut people out — part of the company’s approach is about access to the outdoors and natural spaces.
“That’s why this land in particular was of interest to them.”
While some people have stressed it is the only green space in the vicinity, it’s very close to the Rotary pier and marine boardwalk, Tait said. “Those are amazing community assets.”
The mayor said significant trees on the property will be protected under a covenant, including a 200-year-old Sitka spruce that’s been dubbed Bruce the Spruce.
While she was pleased with the tree-protection measure, Helen Ritts, a member of Friends of Sooke Parks Society, called the overall result disappointing.
“We knew it was an uphill battle but I think people are pretty disappointed,” said Ritts, adding it was “heartwarming” to see the number of people who showed an interest and attended the public hearing.
Tait said the Sooke Lions will put the profit from any sale back into the community.
“They’ve been doing that work for decades now.”
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