ESQUIMALT, BC—The Township of Esquimalt is undertaking a recalibration of its Official Community Plan (OCP) to align with current priorities, community needs, and policy goals.
In November 2023, the Province of British Columbia adopted Bill 44, Housing Statutes (Residential Development Act), requiring all municipalities to update their OCPs. The Township of Esquimalt is updating its Official Community Plan to meet a Provincial requirement that all local governments ensure their OCPs include enough land use capacity to accommodate 20 years of housing need. This update must be completed by the end of 2025.
Esquimalt’s Official Community Plan is a foundational document that guides the township’s long-term vision for land use, development, and community well-being. The current OCP already provides sufficient land use capacity to meet the 20-year housing targets, so no changes to existing land use designations are anticipated.
Instead, the township is considering targeted amendments to align the plan with new Provincial requirements and improve clarity in the plan. This is not a major update, but a recalibration to reflect today’s priorities.
The township is inviting residents and interested community members to have meaningful opportunities to participate in shaping the direction of the township’s future. The project website, EngagingEsquimalt.ca/OCP2025, contains information about the new policies that are being considered in addition to background reports.
There will be an online open house available from July 28 to August 31 as well as two in-person events:
- The first in-person event will be at the Esquimalt Recreation Center from 3-8PM. This informal open house will give participants a chance to talk to staff, learn more about the proposed changes and give feedback.
- The second in-person activity will be at the July 31 Esquimalt Farmer’s Market from 4:30-7:30PM. Participants will again be able to ask questions and offer feedback.
Rather than a detailed survey, the township is welcoming feedback either by submitted comments at the in-person events, via the online open house on EngagingEsquimalt.ca/OCP2025 website (starting July 28) or via email to development.services@esquimalt.ca.
A comprehensive review and full OCP update is planned to begin in 2026, with completion targeted for 2030.
More information
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Media contact
Tara Zajac
Manager of Communications
tara.zajac@esquimalt.ca