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Will Oak Bay Council Allow 30 Protected Trees to Be Cut for Townhomes in the Uplands? Residents Urge Council to Reject Proposed Development

Photo: A Garry Oak Meadow in Uplands Park


By Evan Brown,
Nov 21, 2025

Nearly 500 residents of Oak Bay and Greater Victoria are calling on Oak Bay Council to reject a proposed development at 2830/2850 Lansdowne Road that would remove 30 protected mature trees to build six luxury townhomes in the historic Uplands neighbourhood.

The Uplands, recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada, is valued for its naturalized landscape design by renowned landscape architect John Charles Olmsted, its sweeping Garry oak meadows, and its distinctive park-like setting.  Residents say the proposal threatens the very features the neighbourhood was created to preserve.

“These are not just landscape trees,” said resident Evan Brown, organizer of a community petition.  “They are part of an irreplaceable Garry oak ecosystem that defines the Uplands. Once these mature trees are gone, they are gone forever.”

Residents Speak Out

Petition comments highlight overwhelming concern.  A selection of notable voices includes:

On Heritage and Irreplaceable Canopy Loss

“The Uplands is a national landscaping treasure designed by the famous John Charles Olmsted.  Cutting down protected trees violates everything it was meant to preserve. Removing these trees would destroy the Garry oak savannahs that define the neighbourhood.  Once this canopy is gone, it’s gone forever.”

On Housing and Community Values

“This development does nothing to solve the so-called housing crisis.  It only destroys beautiful natural settings for luxury homes.  The trees are what make this area so magical we should protect them at all costs, not cut them down for expensive multi-unit builds.”

On the Value of the Uplands to Everyone, Not Just Residents

“I value the Uplands it’s the best place for taking elderly relatives on drives, going on bike rides and runs.  Its character is valuable to residents and non-residents alike.  The big lots and mature trees create green space that is wonderful for all to enjoy.  Keep the big lots to help maintain our oaks and MATURE tree canopy.  Replacement trees don’t replace mature ones for decades.”

These comments reflect a broad and compelling consensus: the Uplands is a cherished heritage landscape for the entire region, and its mature canopy must not be sacrificed for short-term development gains.

The community petition opposing the development continues to grow with nearly 500 signatures. 

https://lansdowne.lovable.app/

“People walk, run, cycle, and drive through the Uplands because it offers something rare in Greater Victoria, a tranquil, natural landscape that feels like stepping back in time,” Brown said.  “The community expects Council to protect that legacy, not approve developments that undermine it.”

Upcoming Council Decision

Oak Bay Council will vote on the proposal at the meeting scheduled for:

Monday, November 24, 2025 – 7:00 PM

Residents wishing to provide input can email Council at – obcouncil@oakbay.ca

MEDIA CONTACT

Evan Brown Oak Bay BC
evanbrown76@gmail.com