Southlands Community, Delta, BC (2007-2008)
The project was recognized with the 2010 Award for innovation by the Congress for the New Urbanism.
MVH helped develop and facilitate the proposed Southlands Community on approximately 222 hectares (550 acres). Engaged with over 20 volunteers and a comprehensive planning and design team, thhe plan that eventually was approved dedicated 80% of the site to agriculture and open space with the balance reserved for residential development. The first residential units of nearly 600 were sold in 2020 (see www.mysouthlands.ca).
Agricultural Urbanism Transect (top) developed by MVH integrates agriculture with community structure so that producing, and processing food is at everyone’s front door. The community plan (bottom) transitions from full agriculture on large lots to small-lot kitchen agriculture in the centre of the community.
Agriculture is embraced in all parts of the community – from the main plaza “Market Place” (top) to the “Pocket Common” adjoining a multiple-family residential development (bottom). Residents are living in a true agricultural community where most of their food is produced and processed within its bounds.