Action is being taken to address what the Municipality of North Cowichan calls “long-standing issues” at the Twin Gables property in Crofton.
The municipality has issued a remedial action order following complaints from residents about the condition of the property, which connects the waterfront to Joan Avenue.
Mayor Rob Douglas said the area has been declared a hazard and enforcing the order will present challenges.
“While the site’s current condition is widely regarded as an eyesore, it also provides important affordable housing for low-income residents,” he said. “Given the municipality’s ongoing challenges related to homelessness and street disorder, removing occupied housing units without viable alternatives would risk creating further hardships.”
Under the approved order, Douglas said the property owner must stop residential occupancy in vehicles within 60 days and comply with conditions outlined by the municipality.
“The owner must also apply for demolition permits for derelict and unoccupied units within 60 days and complete demolition by Sept. 1,” he said. “An application must also be made to obtain professional structural assessments for occupied buildings within 120 days, address dangerous trees and submit a zoning amendment application within 12 months.”
The municipality said the measures are intended to improve site conditions, address safety concerns and ensure the property complies with municipal bylaws.
It added that if the owner fails to comply, the municipality may carry out the required work at the owner’s expense.
