Vision for Alternative Uses of the Westcan Terminal of the Cowichan Estuary

In 2017 CERCA jointly with VIU assembled a multi-stakeholder working group to develop long term objectives and a vision for alternative uses of the Westcan Terminal. The guiding principle for the planning group was that multiple uses have to be compatible with the long-term conservation objectives of the estuary as reflected by the Cowichan Estuary Environmental Management Plan and the OCP for Area D, and reflect expected impacts from climate change over time. The working group involved VIU personnel and graduate students.The results of the proposed conversion of the terminal into a multiple use area will be presented at the  September Electoral Area Service Committee meeting supported by a power point. The proposed development plan that is based on the alternative use vision is anchored on a sound economical footing with focus on the tourism sector and an infrastructure catering to an environmental and cultural experience.Guiding policies for this exercise included: safeguarding compatibility of proposed uses with the ecological integrity of the Cowichan Estuary; all uses to be complementary and supportive of the tourism-based economy of Cowichan Bay Village; and all proposed interventions/infrastructure to be sustainable. The planning group members unanimously agreed on a holistic planning approach which requires looking at the Westcan Terminal, Cowichan Bay Village and the estuary as one single planning entity. The Westcan Terminal would inter alia provide space for much needed overflow parking for visitors to the area and Cowichan Bay Village with a small commuter ferry connecting the Village with the Terminal and the amenities and opportunities offered by the proposed multiple uses on this site. It is noteworthy that the Westcan Terminal with almost 25 hectares is larger in size than Cowichan Bay village proper.

Dr. Goetz Schuerholz,

September 2, 2018

Chair CERCA