With final stages of demolition underway, the Capital Regional Hospital District and Island Health expect to work on a financing and funding model this year to achieve a community vision for the former Oak Bay Lodge site.
A 2021 Island Health needs assessment showed programs that would be suitable for the 3.9-acre lot at 2251 Cadboro Bay Rd. include seniors housing and supports; primary and community care; intermediate and short-term housing; rehabilitation services; and some non-health-care uses such as affordable housing and independent seniors housing. The health authority has identified a seniors hub with other primary care as a priority.
The CRHD hosted two rounds of public consultation last year and a third round could come.
The project received input from 173 people at four electronic open houses, 14 in small group meetings, 850 completed surveys and 17 emails.
RELATED: Future uses up for debate as conversation continues on former Oak Bay Lodge site
The public would also have an opportunity to voice views during a rezoning application to the District of Oak Bay.
The 235-unit Oak Bay Lodge has been vacant since Aug. 14, 2020 when the last tenants were relocated to The Summit at Hillside Avenue and Blanshard Street.
The property has a pair of covenants on it dating back to its 1971 sale, which require it to be used as a retirement home and for the public good.
Follow the project at crd.bc.ca/project/oak-bay-lodge-redevelopment.
