Ensure no detriment to neighbours' enjoyment of their own homes

I am writing concerning the proposed development on Oak Bay Avenue know as The Quest. It is my understanding that it will entail the destruction of a large oak tree on the neighbouring property.

In my view, land owners should ensure that their plans are not carried out to the detriment of their neighbours' enjoyment of their own homes. The existing property on which The Quest would be located features a large and luxuriant garden. This point does not seem to have been addressed in the course of the current debate. It too would be lost if the proposed development is permitted to go ahead. I think the main point here is that the developer is hoping to turn a profit. That is as it should be. But it should not come at the expense of others. York House residents have made it abundantly clear that they do not wish to lose the scenic and cooling benefit of their large Garry Oak. Their point of view is important.

Rather than further exacerbating community tensions, I believe that the developer should be encouraged to redefine his plans in such a way as to incorporate the neighbouring tree so that The Quest can also benefit from its presence. I hope that yourself and the Oak Bay Council will give due consideration to this approach, one which would in addition reflect Canada's need to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.