Roundhouse Design Guidelines - Victoria

APPENDIX A.1
PEDESTRIAN LEVEL WIND STUDY - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report describes a pedestrian level wind (PLW) study undertaken to assess the wind
conditions around the proposed Roundhouse site in Victoria, British Colombia. The study
merges simulation results based on computer modelling of the wind field for the full range of
wind directions, with a statistical model of the Victoria wind climate to predict pedestrian wind
conditions at grade. When compared to industry standard comfort criteria, the results provide
an assessment of wind comfort and acceptable activity levels over the entire site detailed in the
subsequent report.
Results of the present study indicate that pedestrian wind conditions at grade are generally calm
and suited to the intended use of most public areas and pedestrian pathways linking various
destinations. However, depending on the specific intended uses, mitigation may be appropriate
for one or more areas.
The windiest locations on the current site occur: (i) along the Lime Bay Mews corridor between
Buildings 2 and 3; (ii) along the south corner and southeast elevation of the Building 2, and (iii)
along the west side of Building 4 and over part of the residential courtyard. Of these areas, and
based on our understanding of site usage, the only area that should be considered for mitigation
would be the pedestrian corridor between Buildings 2 and 3. All other areas provide acceptable
conditions or nearby refuge in the event of adverse wind conditions. No dangerous conditions
are expected to occur anywhere on site under typical weather conditions. This statement does
not apply to infrequent weather events that recur on a cycle of several years or more.
Without specific knowledge of building access points at this time, the general wind character
over the site suggests that wind conditions around building entrances would not generally
create problems for pedestrians, except potentially near the windiest areas noted. The details of
these conditions should be reviewed once building details are known.
Bayview Properties Ltd., K.G. Kidd Associates Ltd.
The Roundhouse Development, Victoria, B.C: Pedestrian Level Wind Study
i
R O U N D H O U S E D E S I G N G U I D E L I N E S J u l y 2 0 0 8 47