TOWNSHIP OF ESQUIMALT STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: June 1, 2026 Report No. DEV-26-026
TO: Council
FROM: Alex Tang, Planner and Bill Brown, Director of Development Services
SUBJECT: Development Permit and Development Variance Permit Application - 604 Nelson Street
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
That Council approve Development Permit No. DP000244 Amendment No. 1 and Development Variance Permit No. DVP00182 for the variances requested to accommodate an underground parkade at 604 Nelson Street as outlined in Staff Report DEV-26-026.
Body
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The applicant is requesting a variance to Zoning Bylaw, 1992, No. 2050 to accommodate the underground parkade. The applicant states that this variance would facilitate an efficient and functional underground parking layout. The setbacks for the Principal Building at and above the First Storey would remain the same.
BACKGROUND:
The applicant is proposing to construct a 6-storey, commercial residential mixed-use building. The applicant is requesting variances to the Zoning Bylaw, 1992, No. 2050 to accommodate the underground parkade. In particular, the applicant is requesting a variance to the setback along Nelson Street for the portion of the Principal Building below the First Storey.
Further to Council discussion on this application at their April 27, 2026, meeting, the applicant has amended the parkade in the northeast portion of the building by removing an area measuring 2 metres by 2 metres where the building protruded most and has improved the aesthetics of this corner. A 17 metre-portion of the parkade in the northeast corner of the building will still protrude above ground but it is reduced from the previous plans.
Chronology:
* February 12, 2026 - Application received
* March 17, 2026 - Advisory Planning Commission
* April 27, 2026 - Postponed by Council
Advisory Planning Commission Recommendations:
This application was considered at the regular meeting of the Advisory Planning Co...
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