North Park
Neighbourhood Association

Project Overview:

Bowcey Construction has submitted a Development Permit with Variance application to subdivide existing lots, keeping the existing conversions facing Empress Avenue, and construct a (7) new strata townhouse units facing Bay Street.

Project Update:

The application is now proceeding as a development permit with variances, instead of a rezoning application, due to recent zoning bylaw changes, so a rezoning application is no longer required.

The project itself remains unchanged; only the application type has shifted. As a result, the decision will be made by City of Victoria planning staff rather than Council. 

Victoria City Council passed the following motion at the January 22, 2026, Council Meeting:

• To approve the heritage statement of significance for the property located at 1026 Empress Avenue. 
• Instruct the Director of Planning and Development to prepare a Heritage Designation Bylaw that would designate the property as a Municipal Heritage Site, as outlined in the staff report dated August 18, 2025 for 1026 Empress Avenue. 
• That first and second readings of the Heritage Designation Bylaw for 1026 Empress Avenue be considered by Council and a Public Hearing date be set. 

Past Letters and Communications:

• December 2, 2025: 1026/1028 and 1030 Empress Avenue Rezoning Application Resubmission
• May 22, 2024: 1026/1028 and 1030 Empress Avenue Rezoning and Development Permit with Variance Application
• November 25, 2022: 1026, 1028, and 1030 Empress Avenue CALUC Summary Letter Follow-Up
• October 31, 2023: 1026, 1028, and 1030 Empress Avenue CALUC Summary Letter