08/29/2026
Good morning Langford! Let's talk about Woodlands Park... and bust a Few myths while we're at it!
Did Langford buy a trailer park? Yes.
Is it becoming another development? No.
Is it becoming one of the most unique urban parks in our region? Absolutely!
In January 2025, the City of Langford purchased the Woodlands Park property at 848 Hockley Avenue, securing over six acres of green space right in the heart of downtown. The property, known for its beautiful gardens, mature trees, and peaceful pathways, had been operated as a manufactured home park for nearly 60 years.
Here's a fact that often gets left out of the conversation: the property was purchased for $9.8 million, even though it was appraised at $18.125 million. The difference was treated as a donation by longtime Langford residents and property stewards Ralph Stoerzer and Laura Kiehl who worked with the City because they wanted the land preserved as a public park and community legacy rather than seeing it redeveloped.
And no, residents weren't forced to leave overnight. The City put in place a five-year transition plan allowing tenants to remain until January 2030, along with compensation and relocation support that exceeds provincial requirements.
So what will the future hold?
Think:
Towering trees and preserved urban forest
Stunning gardens and walking paths
Landscaped ponds and fountains
Picnic areas for family gatherings
Playgrounds for kids
More places to walk, relax, and connect with nature
The vision draws inspiration from iconic parks and botanical gardens such as Beacon Hill Park and VanDusen Botanical Gardens.
In a city that residents consistently say needs more parks, more trees, and more public gathering spaces, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a true urban oasis in downtown Langford.
As the election season heats up, let's keep the conversation grounded in facts. Disagree if you like. Debate the details if you want. But let's make sure we're talking about what was actually approved, what was actually purchased, and what is actually planned. It's important to rely on facts and official information. The details of the project are publicly available on the City of Langford's website, and residents are encouraged to review the source material for themselves.
Because sometimes the truth is pretty exciting all by itself. The more you know…