Property on the southern slopes of Arbutus Hump has been acquired by the Town of Ladysmith.
The 5.68-hectare parcel will be preserved as parkland to protect ecologically sensitive areas. The town said other portions of the property have also been identified for similar protection.
“The remaining portions have been identified as having the potential for ecosystem recruitment, meaning that with invasive plant removal and property care, the red-listed ecosystem will expand,” the town said.
Mayor Deena Beeston said the acquisition is a major benefit for the community and future generations.
“This is a significant win for our community,” she said. “Protecting the Arbutus Hump means future generations will be able to enjoy and experience this remarkable natural area.”
The acquisition follows an agreement between the town and District Development Group involving zoning amendments connected to the Arbutus Hump property.
“Under the agreement, which was a condition of zoning amendments, the town allowed District Development Group (DDG) to transfer density to their other land holdings in exchange for the parkland. This eliminated the need for DDG to construct two crossings over Southwestern Holland Creek, resulting in a smaller ecological footprint without reducing the number of housing units.”
The town said its first step will be addressing invasive plants on the property and developing a plan to control and remove them.
The new parkland has not yet been named.
