South Lawn Project Receives Grant

A project that aims to enhance Christ Church Cathedral’s popular outdoor space at Burdett and Quadra Streets has received a $10,000 grant from the Vision Fund of the Diocese of British Columbia. “The South Lawn is important because it’s a place where the church can reach out to the community. It is a popular play area and a favourite spot to enjoy a moment of meditation in a busy day,” said Malcolm Read, member of the Friends of Christ Church Cathedral, the group spearheading the project which includes Ron Cox, Wayne Stewart and Maureen Piercey. “We want to beautify the space and we can’t do it without support from our many partners. It is wonderful to get one of the first donations from the diocese to launch our campaign.”

The $150,000 project features a new landscape design to rejuvenate the lawn that will feature a native plant garden, additional bench seating and interpretive signage. The Friends group is currently consulting other potential partners such as First Nations, and civic, community and business groups.

The South Lawn of Christ Church Cathedral is a much-treasured green space in the downtown core of Victoria, appreciated by parishioners, the local community and visitors. It is one of the few green spaces in the downtown area where people can relax, reflect, meditate or enjoy their coffee or lunch in a peaceful natural setting.
In addition, the South Lawn serves an important community function as a recreation space for Cathedral School students, a play area for children in the YMCA/YWCA’s childcare program and a site for music events during the summer.