Copyright vicnews
Esquimalt may be one step closer to becoming a more vibrant community. On Oct. 27, a small group gathered at the Gorge Pavilion to celebrate a major milestone: closing on a land purchase and advancing a rezoning application for a new cohousing development. Soon to join the Canadian Cohousing Network – a national non-profit dedicated to creating and sustaining cohousing communities – the Esquimalt Cohousing Village will be located in the heart of the township at 1140 and 1148 Esquimalt Rd., sitting across from the Archie Browning Sports Centre. Ronaye Matthew, project mentor and member of the professional team, said that this project, at its core, seeks to put the community at the forefront rather than profits. “Cohousing is a form of intentional community where people choose to live there because they want to have more connection with their neighbours,” she said. “Cohousing is typically self-contained homes with extensive common facilities.” More than just a philosophy, cohousing is designed to create shared spaces where residents can build a strong sense of community. “Even though everybody has their own kitchens, shared meals is something that people do on a regular basis,” she said. “It’s (an opportunity) for the community to get together and share resources.” While most housing projects are for-profit ventures, Matthew explained that cohousing developments are initiated and led by the future residents themselves. “There’s no profit in the development because it’s an owner-developed project,” she explained. Matthew added that because these developments are transparent and led at the grassroots level, the finished buildings are often of higher quality than typical market projects. The project plans to include up to 34 units in a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments “to serve a diverse group of people.” Matthew said the group plans to submit its rezoning application in the coming week, noting the process can take up to a year. If approved, construction would begin in late 2026, with completion expected in early 2028. “We are all trying to find ways to create more affordability and support more diversity for a broader range of people,” she said. “Community is the answer.” For more information on the project, visit evcohousing.ca.
