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New Neighbourhood Taking Shape on Burke Mountain: Inside the Hazel-Coy Plan

New Neighbourhood Taking Shape on Burke Mountain: Inside the Hazel-Coy Plan

The City of Coquitlam is laying the groundwork for an entirely new neighbourhood on Burke Mountain. Dubbed the Hazel-Coy Neighbourhood, this planned community is the first to emerge from the long-range Northwest Burke Vision and promises a mix of homes, trails, a community hub, and new infrastructure — all set against a dramatic natural landscape at the foot of Pinecone Burke Provincial Park.

A Vision Rooted in the Northwest Burke Plan

Hazel-Coy is the first of four neighbourhoods outlined in the Northwest Burke Vision (NBV) — a 2017 land use strategy that will guide development across 400 hectares over the next 30 years. Stretching approximately 70 hectares in size, Hazel-Coy is strategically located on the north slope of Burke Mountain. It’s bordered by Hyde Creek, the Coquitlam River escarpment, and the Pinecone Burke Provincial Park, offering both natural beauty and development opportunity.

Of the total area, around 40 hectares are considered developable. The NBV envisions Hazel-Coy as a low-rise, family-oriented neighbourhood with up to 950 homes, mostly in the form of single-family houses and townhomes. A small community hub, school, and access to parks and trails round out the blueprint for what is intended to be a complete and connected community.

Planning in Phases: From Vision to Draft Policies

The neighbourhood planning process kicked off in early 2021, shortly after City Council approved its scope. Since then, the City has been working through a structured, phased engagement and planning program:

  • Phase 1 (Winter/Spring 2021): Background research and early engagement with landowners and stakeholders.

  • Phase 2 (Summer/Fall 2021): Broader public engagement to validate early findings and collect input on land use and amenities.

  • Phase 3 (2021–2023): Currently active, this phase focuses on drafting the neighbourhood plan and key policies.

  • Phase 4 (Upcoming): Finalization of the neighbourhood plan and its implementation framework.

Throughout, the City has prioritized meaningful public engagement. Residents, property owners, and community groups have had opportunities to weigh in via online surveys, virtual charrettes, and community meetings. Summaries of feedback from Phases 1 and 2 were shared publicly in late 2021.

What’s in the Plan?

The upcoming Hazel-Coy Neighbourhood Plan will define what can be built and where, as well as outline the infrastructure investments needed to support future residents. Some of the proposed features include:

  • An extension of Oxford Street to improve connectivity

  • An upgraded Hyde Creek crossing

  • A new water reservoir to serve higher elevations

  • Strategies for working with steep terrain to maximize views and minimize large retaining walls

  • Policies around land use, transportation, parks, utilities, wildfire mitigation, and environmental stewardship

In short, this plan goes beyond just zoning. It’s about designing a community that’s livable, connected to nature, and thoughtfully integrated into the broader Burke Mountain vision.

Building a Community with Nature at Its Doorstep

One of the distinguishing features of Hazel-Coy is its proximity to Pinecone Burke Provincial Park and its integration with existing natural systems like Hyde Creek. This location calls for careful planning to protect ecological assets while also creating trails, open spaces, and recreation opportunities for future residents.

By planning from the ground up with these principles in mind, Coquitlam is aiming to create not just another subdivision, but a true neighbourhood that blends urban living with outdoor access.

Curious how Hazel-Coy will change the face of Burke Mountain living? We’re watching this project closely to keep clients informed and ahead of the curve. Want to stay updated on future developments like this? We’d love to be your local guide.

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