Victoria International Marina plans move closer to completion

By: Belinda Liversedge

Plans to construct a luxury superyacht marina at Victoria Harbour, Vancouver island received a boost last night as Victoria’s Mayor and Council unanimously approved a crucial development permit.

Two buildings that will sit either side of the now reduced 29-slip moorage marina have been granted the permits.   It comes after two recent milestones were achieved in the permit process, with the vital concurrence of local First Nations gained in March and approval for the seabed lease occurring in June 2011.

Imagination is a hallmark of the two buildings which ‘capture the ambience of a sleek yacht setting out to sea’, and from the ariel view, ‘will be reminiscent of a stylised yacht propeller’. Speaking of the significance of the approval of the buildings Lachlan MacLean, Vice-President of WAM Development Group said:

“This is another big step forward for the marina.  Once constructed, the Victoria International Marina will provide a new coffee shop, restaurant and overall gathering place for the community where residents and visitors can socialize or relax.”

MacLean said there were still steps to be taken to achieve completion of the plans, but he is confident the process will be speedy.  He said:

“The next step in the approval process for the marina is the Federal Government approval for the navigable waters permit and environmental screening.  But given we had already been granted the permit last year when the marina was set to be larger, we are confident that this will happen soon.”

The City of Victoria downzoned the site for the marina late last year, which saw it shrinking by half to the current plans of 29-slips to fit yachts up to 45 metres. As a result, the developer had to stall plans and re-apply to Transport Canada for the navigable waters permit.  The marina is now looking on course for completion in July 2012.

When this happens Victoria International Marina will be an important hub for superyachts cruising or berthing in the Pacific Northwest.

Up to now the superyacht industry has struggled to establish itself in the affluent area that encompasses Victoria, Vancouver and Seattle. It is hoped that a regional hub will bring with it a plethora of large yachts.