Panama Flats Concept Plan Update

Concept Plan Update

In 2023 Saanich Council directed staff to update the 2014 Panama Flats Concept Plan. Other than large scale agriculture, which is no longer being considered, the 2014 Plan remains largely relevant. The purpose of this update is to formalize the community’s current use of the flats within the context of the original 2014 Plan. Staff embarked on the update in late 2024.

Saanich staff have met with representatives of Community Associations, and community groups and organizations related to recreation (walking, dog-walking, and cycling), the environment, and agriculture to learn how people currently use Panama Flats, and what they value. We’ve also invited the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations and the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council to engage on the plan.

Saanich staff have reflected these groups' collective input in a Vision Statement, and created a series of Goals and Actions to realize it (see Presentation Board 4). The Vision is:

Panama Flats is a space that the community treasures for its benefit to both nature and people. Its rich habitat is protected and supports a variety of wildlife, particularly an abundance of birds. It is a popular neighbourhood destination that helps to build community based on a common understanding and respect that unites all visitors, regardless of their interests.

Visit the Project Page at saanich.ca/panamaflats.