EXCITING UPDATE:The Kings Community Nature Space has been protected in whole and IN PERPETUITY!

Saanich residents celebrated the exciting news Nov 22/21 as Council voted to remove the final financial fundraising hurdle in order to begin the restoration work sooner rather than later. Saanich council made this decision in the long-term interest of sound climate, ecological and community action. “Let’s unleash the power of this group to achieve what they really want to, which isn’t just the purchase of this land, but the restoration of it,” Mayor Fred Haynes said during the meeting, adding the decision is an example of direct climate action by the local government.”

The municipality bought the 2.2-hectare site on Kings Road from B.C. Hydro in 2019 for $5.5 million and set about ­seeking funds from other government bodies and public donations to cover half the purchase price.

The green space is located near the municipal borders of Saanich, Victoria, and Oak Bay, which all contributed to fundraising efforts for partial payment of the park. $1.75 million was garnered from the CRD through the sale of Willis Point. $250,000 was put toward the space from the City of Victoria, $75,000 came from Oak Bay, and another $40,000 was fundraised through efforts in the community. In the end, however, Saanich opted to cover the last $635,000 of its $2.75-million goal itself.

Now the community can focus on restoration and rehabilitation of the green space and Bowker Creek, a 220-meter section of which runs through the land. Restoration efforts will include planting native trees and plants, improving the creek, adding more habitat for wildlife, removal of invasive species, and creating a more accessible pathway from the Royal Jubilee Hospital to the urban Nature space. 

The Kings Community Fundraising Committee is now seeking donations and grants towards restoration initiatives. They are appreciative of any support to help achieve their goals and be a part of the legacy lasting generations!

Donations can be made directly by credit card at saanichlegacy.ca. For other arrangements or to discuss a potential donation please contact Philip Bisset-Covaneira, Vice President, Saanich Legacy foundation at Philip.Bisset-Covaneiro@IG.ca