The car-heavy and sprawling Woodgrove neighbourhood of north Nanaimo is subject to an ideological re-think through a lengthy City process. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

WOODGROVE'S FUTURE

Population growth through Nanaimo’s north highlighting need for infrastructure upgrades

Jan 12, 2026 | 5:29 AM

NANAIMO — An increase in active transportation and transit improvements are needed to support any level of growth in the city’s north end.

It’s one of many finding through early work in creation of the Woodgrove Area Plan, which envisions changes and evolutions to the north Nanaimo neighbourhood over the few decades.

Phase two of the plan’s development involved identifying different growth scenarios, ranging in population growth from 2,500 people to 7,500 people in the finite area.

The scope of the plan covers land either side of the Island Hwy., between Dover Rd. to the north and just south of Enterprise Way to the south.

The area in red is covered in the scope of the ongoing Woodgrove Area Plan process by the City of Nanaimo. (City of Nanaimo)

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Already offering a wealth of access to daily needs such as groceries, shopping and park space through Woodgrove Centre, Costco and May Richard Bennett Pioneer Park on the northern border, the region was identified as mainly needing connections to a complete array of essential services.

Different scenarios outline a range of options from new pedestrian and cycling connections, to a relocated transit exchange.

A report prepared by City staff said there is a lack of pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, particularly on the Island Hwy., occasionally complicating access for area residents.

Traffic congestion was also seen as a major issue for the neighbourhood, further compounding issues for those walking or cycling.

To accommodate a growing population projected over the next three decades, housing units were highlighted as a major need, with between 1,274 and 3,823 units required.

Improvements to area infrastructure including upgrades to sanitary sewer and water pipes on Turner Rd. and Hammond Bay Rd. would be needed for moderate population growth.

More substantial refits should be planned if a larger influx of people is expected, including a new water main loop in the area.

A survey launching Monday, Jan. 12 will collect further feedback from residents before specific policies and actions are tabled later this year.

Adoption of a formal Woodgrove Area Plan is expected to follow, which will help inform Council decisions in the years to come.

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