A corner at one of Saanich's busiest intersections could get a new look, as plans are in the works to build a three-storey office and medical building at Tillicum Road and the Trans-Canada Highway.
The site in question is located on the vacant southeast corner of the intersection. The proposal suggests the top floor would house King Lasik, while the bottom two floors would be leased for general office use. A level of underground parking would also be built.
In 2002 Saanich council approved rezoning the property from single-family residential to an office/restaurant zone, in anticipation of the owner constructing a three-level building, but those plans never came to fruition.
Rob Wickson, president of the Gorge Tillicum Community Association, in a letter to Saanich council noted the proposed building was too small and short, given its location and property size.
"It seems to us to be a wasted opportunity to build an economic engine in our community. More folks might choose to live near where they work if we create more opportunities for employment," he wrote on behalf of the community association.
"As we understand it, this building is being built for medical use. Given the proximity to the Victoria General Hospital, perhaps a taller structure could house more medical services that support the nearby hospital facility, which seems to have nothing nearby."
Saanich council is expected to discuss the proposal Monday night at its 7:30 p.m. meeting.
kslavin@saanichnews.com