GVHA – Harbour District Study

Urbanics was retained as part of the consultant team supporting the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) in the development of its Victoria Harbour Integrated Plan. Urbanics provided a comprehensive economic, market, land use, and financial assessment of GVHA’s strategically located waterfront assets, examining the broader economic conditions and market forces influencing the future of Victoria Harbour. The analysis considered marine industrial, tourism and recreation, office, retail, residential, and other potential land uses, together with the planning and regulatory framework affecting GVHA properties.

Urbanics also assessed market gaps and strategic development opportunities to help inform the long-term positioning of the harbour and its assets. The work explored opportunities for economic diversification, marine services and the blue economy, mixed-use waterfront development, infrastructure investment, strategic partnerships, and more effective utilization of underused lands and assets. A high-level financial review complemented the market and land use analysis, identifying potential revenue opportunities and longer-term fiscal considerations to support GVHA’s transition toward a more diversified, resilient, and financially sustainable working harbour.