A new school could be on the horizon for Langford, which could help alleviate pressure on existing schools that are “bursting at the seams.”
Sooke School District has confirmed they are in discussions with the owners of Langford Heights business park, located in the Millstream area, to “explore potential future opportunities” at their site.
The landowners have earmarked the property located at 691 Kodiak Way as a potential new school for the district.
“Given the challenges of securing suitable land, it’s crucial to engage in early conversations with landowners whenever possible to identify potential sites for future schools,” said a spokesperson for the school district. “These efforts help ensure we are prepared to meet the evolving needs of our students and families.”
To allow for discussions to continue, the landowners have requested a text amendment to the development’s existing zoning bylaw, to add ‘school’ as a permitted use at the earmarked property.
About the potential new school, the district did not confirm what level of education it would accommodate. However at a City of Langford meeting on Monday (Jan. 13), residents and councillors spoke about the pressing need for more elementary schools in the city.
“There's only two elementary schools on the north side of the highway right now,” said Frazer Johnson, whose children attend Millstream Elementary.
“Lakewood is very full, Millstream currently has over 330 students – it's built for 198,” he continued. “If the city can do something to make it easier for the school district to buy property, to add more school sites on the north side of the highway, please do it."
Councillors unanimously agreed at the meeting to give notice the city will consider three readings for the bylaw text amendment at a future date.
“I think we heard quite clearly the need for the school,” said Coun. Mary Wagner, who proposed the motion. “We’ve probably all seen all the portables on the Millstream school site … and the other school is full as well with Lakewood.”
“It doesn't sound that exciting, but I think it does open doors for some exciting opportunities,” she added.
“Today what we're doing is removing a barrier so the school district can do the work that they do so well,” said Coun. Kimberley Guiry. “And I look forward to hearing whatever comes next out of this.”
