Continuing Studies Building addition
Project completion
On April 21, 2016 the new addition was officially opened with a celebration event at the Continuing Studies Building. The new facility includes executive classrooms and language labs, as well as study, pronunciation and writing centres.
Project information
The Continuing Studies Building addition provides expanded space for the English Language Centre's Pathways Program for international students. The project increased the size of the current building, which was opened in 2003, by approximately 72%. A program of requirements, which outlines the building spaces, uses and services was completed followed by preparation of the schematic design and arrangements for community consultation.
For more information contact planning@uvic.ca
Engagement materials
- Continuing Studies Building Addition - Oct 2013 Open House Boards
- Continuing Studies Building Addition - May 2014 Information Session
Development Variance Permit Application
The Community Engagement Framework report provides for a consistent methodology to be used to determine the overall approach to an engagement program for campus land use planning and development projects. The project was assessed using Table 4.1 - Engagement Approach (see green highlighting). An engagement approach, primarily in the inform category was determined for this project.
A campus open house was hosted in October 2013, to present information and answer questions regarding the project and development approval process. The open house boards can be viewed using the documents tab.
A follow-up information session was hosted in May 2014 to provide information on the construction plans.
A Development Variance Permit (DVP) application was submitted to the District of Saanich on October 28, 2013.
The District of Saanich zoning bylaw requires that a DVP be obtained for campus building projects that exceed 10 metres in height. Although the addition is 13m, with a lower level and two levels above grade, it is lower than the CST three storey building height of 14.8m which was approved as part of the construction of the CST Building in 2002. The design of the addition complements the size, massing and exterior treatment of the existing building.
As no new parking spaces was proposed for the project, a variance of 63 spaces was also part of the university's application. Parking demand related to the building addition was anticipated to be minimal given the use of the majority of the new space for the English Language Centre and by international students. The project is consistent with the university's ongoing efforts to reduce single occupancy vehicle traffic and congestion and to encourage increased transit ridership, cycling and walking for travel to and from the campus.
In January 2014, the Saanich Advisory Design Panel supported the design for the addition, stating in its meeting minutes "It was the consensus of the members present that it be recommended that the design of the addition of the Continuing Studies Building at the University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road, be accepted."
On May 5, 2014, the Saanich COuncil approved the DVP for the project.