Philip Steenkamp, university president and vice-chancellor, unveiled the detailed reproduction of a waterwheel that stood on the same site for more than a century. “The interaction of a waterwheel and nature results in a greater force,” said Steenkamp. “Similarly, by working with generous donors, we can create spaces that provide greater peace and solace so essential in this time of great change and uncertainty. “ The university sits on the grounds of Hatley Park, an Edwardian estate that was built in 1908 by B.C. Lieutenant Governor James Dunsmuir. The original Japanese Garden was designed in 1910 by Isaburo Kishida, who had arrived in Canada to help his son build a Japanese tea garden in the Gorge Park area.
It’s the site of a strip mall anchored by Il Greco Restaurant, which owns the property at the northwest corner of the busy intersection. “This is a wonderful first step to renewal … replacing tired, older infrastructure … and growing our community,” said Coun. Colin Plant. Councillors granted the landowner rezoning from commercial to general commercial neighbourhood centre and allowed variance permits on building setbacks, height and reduced parking. They noted architect Alan Lowe, the applicant acting on behalf of the property owner, worked closely with municipal staff to fine tune the project. The landowner also agreed to make a $108,000 contribution for improvements to nearby Gorge Park and will finance the removal of trees on the property that will be replanted at other locations in the municipality.