Town Council has officially adopted its Official Community Plan (OCP), completing a housing-focused review ahead of the Province’s December 31, 2025 legislated deadline.

The newly adopted OCP positions the Town to meet provincial requirements while responding to the community’s evolving housing needs. The OCP introduces policy updates to help address housing needs while continuing to prioritize environmental stewardship, neighbourhood character, and community well-being.

Public input was central to the development of the updated OCP. Engagement took place over six months, beginning with the Quality of Life Survey in January 2025 and concluding with a Summary Open House in June 2025. Residents participated through surveys, pop-up events, open houses, and topic-specific discussions. The review was also guided by the 2024 Interim Housing Needs Report, which identified a need for 2,435 additional housing units over the next 20 years to support the Town’s evolving needs.

Mayor Teunis Westbroek emphasized the importance of public input: “This OCP reflects a collaborative effort between residents, Council, and staff. It demonstrates our commitment to thoughtful, community-guided planning that supports a more diverse and attainable housing landscape for Qualicum Beach.”

With the updated OCP now in place, the Town will move forward with the Ways to Achieve Attainable Market Housing (WAAMH) project. This next phase includes developing housing model feasibility profiles tailored to the Town’s Priority Housing Groups (PHGs), which include youth and young families, working individuals, older seniors and people with a disability. Particular attention will be given to the financial challenges faced by households within the PHGs. Public engagement for the WAAMH project will begin in February 2026, offering residents additional opportunities to share their insights and help guide practical housing strategies.

The complete Official Community Plan can be viewed at qualicumbeach.com/ocp-review.

Contact

media@qualicumbeach.com

250-619-2332