The Maritime Museum of BC Withdraws from the Langford Development Plans
Apr 13, 2021
The Maritime Museum of BC has made the decision to withdraw from the cultural development plans known as the Pacific Maritime Centre with the City of Langford. The unprecedented situation with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has created an economic climate that no longer makes it possible for the Museum to proceed.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank Mayor Young and Langford council for their tremendous support of the Maritime Museum of BC,” said Jamie Webb, President of the Museum. “Langford offered the Museum land and municipal staff support in the effort to provide the Museum with a permanent home. Langford’s innovative and bold approach to this development is greatly appreciated.’
“The City of Langford looked forward to welcoming the Maritime Museum to Langford, however we understand and support their decision to seek out a waterfront location.” said Mayor Young. “We wish them all the best with this project moving forward.”
Like many other non-profits, the Museum has felt the strain of the pandemic and has had to focus on maintaining their operations. The Museum believes in Langford’s bold vision to develop a cultural complex that includes a performing arts centre and strongly supports them in this initiative.
Since the pandemic hit in March 2020 the Maritime Museum of BC has shifted its programming online and has created new digital exhibits. While those virtual initiatives have been successful, the Museum is looking forward to a post-COVID tourism boom and welcoming more visitors back into the city. In the meantime, the Museum Board is actively seeking opportunities for a new museum location in downtown Victoria, ideally on the harbour.
