LANGFORD LIVES UP TO ITS POTENTIAL AND MORE
Just 30 minutes by car from downtown Victoria, the city of Langford is abuzz with recent developments, and nowhere is this growth more obvious than just south of its infamous Costco—which, in recent years, has taken on double-duty as a navigational beacon. The site of an enormous commercial and residential complex that’s currently in the initial phases of rollout, once completed it will cover a staggering two million square feet (7.7 acres).
Helping this rapidly budding community of 25, 000 to live up to its nickname as the “urban core of the west shore,” the development (currently known as 899 McCallum) has embraced a “downtown-like and pedestrian-oriented” model. Running along McCallum Road between Secretariat Way, Cavalcade Terrace and the Trans Canada Highway, it’s much extoled design is unlike anything the neighbourhood currently has. A combination of townhomes and single-family homes, along with apartment complexes and commercial spaces, the first stages of the project are well underway.
Significant to the success of 899 McCallum is the much anticipated McCallum Road—a connector road between Leigh Road interchange at the Trans Canada Highway. As Langford’s well-known ‘big-box’ shopping area continues to swell with increased growth, the secondary access route is a welcome addition and will help to significantly ease traffic.
Langford is currently the fastest growing community in the Capital Regional District (CRD), which is comprised of thirteen municipalities in Greater Victoria and the southern Gulf Islands—together covering the southern tip of Vancouver Island. With its close proximity to Victoria, it is easily accessible by BC Ferries and the Victoria International Airport.
Population growth and commercial development is far from the only thing Langford has going for it. Enjoying the same Mediterranean climate as its neighbours, the city, though relatively small, has three freshwater lakes. This of course has benefits that go beyond physical beauty as water sports enthusiasts have easy access to facilities for fishing, sailing, kayaking and just about any other sport that takes advantage of the water. Those who love fishing can cast right from the dock on the Ed Nixon trail, or launch from their own boat on the water.
Langford has also been blessed with numerous parks and hiking trails, including the infamous Goldstream Provincial Park and Thetis Lake Regional Park. Incredibly conscious of its environment, Langford long ago took interest in preserving and promoting its natural beauty. Some of the more popular hiking and walking trails that have been carefully cultivated as a result include the Galloping Goose Trail, Millstream Creek Trail, Glen Lake, and Cy Jenkins Trail.
Another major boon to the area is Langford’s Affordable Housing Program. A superb initiative started in 2004, it requires every developer of a new subdivision within the city to build “one affordable home for every 10 single-family lots subdivided.” Consequently priced at 60% of market value, these affordable homes provide an incredible opportunity to those who meet eligibility requirements.
With gorgeous condo units such as those at newly minted Lameena Terrace starting at $199, 000, local housing offers both amenities and features to rival any big city—without the exorbitant price tag. But if it’s luxury you’re after, there is no shortage of estates in Langford, although prices may well be below comparable estates and acreages elsewhere on the island.
Highly walkable, diverse, with an obvious commitment to its community and the natural environment of its residents, Langford’s growth (and potential) has no sign of slowing down.