Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design - June 2007

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (*LEED^®) – Neighbourhood Development draft standards being developed by the City of Langford in partnership with the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC), the private sector and the Ministry of Community Services will be the first of their kind in Canada. The objective is to create standards for sustainable neighbourhood development that are both implementable and meet the high standards set by LEED. These standards will be tested in a pilot project in the City of Langford.
 

As a result of the LEED - Neighbourhood Development process, the City of Langford is developing planning bylaws and policies that support long-term sustainability in its community. It is anticipated that the new guidelines, bylaws and policies will be transferable tools for use in communities throughout British Columbia and help local governments in their efforts to support and encourage more sustainable neighbourhood development.
 

Currently there are Canadian LEED standards for buildings but no guidelines for neighbourhood development. When a building receives LEED certification it indicates that the builder has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability by meeting higher performance standards in environmental responsibility and energy efficiency than currently required. It is expected that LEED certification for a neighbourhood would meet similar standards.
 

The LEED - Neighbourhood Development draft standards being developed by the City of Langford are intended to be used by the CaGBC for LEED Neighbourhood Development certification. This certification will recognize development projects that successfully protect and enhance the overall health, natural environment and quality of life of communities. These certified development projects will focus on smart growth best practices including designing pedestrian orientated neighbourhoods with access to public transit and community amenities within walking distance.
 

The land to be developed, Westhills Green Community, consists of approximately 500 acres of undeveloped second growth forest which adjoins the City of Langford town centre. The comprehensive development of the property will include approximately 3,500 residential units, office/commercial space, park and open space, and opportunities for schools and other institutional uses. The community will be anchored by a large village centre incorporating a blend of retail, commercial, educational and residential uses and two smaller neighbourhood centres to ensure that residents can access the majority of their daily needs within a 10-minute walk.
 

An extensive trail network, car-share program, internal shuttle service and rail link to Victoria will provide a variety of transportation choices and reduce reliance on the automobile. All of the buildings and infrastructure will be energy and water efficient, and will be designed and built according to LEED standards. The emphasis on compact, high-density development will conserve land. More than 40% of the area will be preserved as parkland and open space, and will provide public access to Langford Lake and connectivity to existing parks.
 

The outcomes of this project will be many and varied. The City of Langford has set guidelines and regulations for a new Comprehensive Development Zone which is to be LEED - Neighbourhood Development certified after build-out. The formulation of these guidelines and regulations will inform future neighbourhood development projects in Langford. The project will serve as a model to other jurisdictions who wish to improve their environmental, economic and social sustainability.
 

Notably, the resulting national Neighbourhood Design LEED standard could be used by any community in Canada wishing to demonstrate a commitment to energy efficient and environmentally and socially sustainable design.
 

* LEED^® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Green Building Council and signifies Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.