Why Area
Ladysmith, British Columbia
Ladysmith is situated in the heartland of Vancouver Island, defined by the boundaries of Duncan and Nanaimo
The Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) is one of the fastest growing regions in British Columbia, with a population of more than 131,000 people and some of Vancouver Island's most liveable communities
Ladysmith is one of the fastest growing communities in the province due to its heightened desirability as a place to work, live and play, whether it is for a young family, active adults, or seniors looking to retire to the coast.
Growth rate - 10.7% between last two censuses (2001-2006), or about 2% per year.
Nanaimo Airport is located just 7Km from Ladysmith.
Currently the Airport provides a 41 Million Dollar contribution to the local economy and provides, directly or indirectly, 584 Full-Time contract jobs.
However, with its current Multi-Million Dollar expansion underway, the economic forecast developed by “Inside Canadian Airports” will swell to $121.9 Million and 1,617 jobs by the year 2026.
Rental vacancy rate is not specifically collected for Ladysmith, but it is low, and there are very few, if any, strata units available for rental.
New Community Projects include:
New 4.75 ha (11 acre) sportsfield complex (Town facility) (3.2 million)
- Phase 1 now underway -- artificial (year round) soccer field
- Phase 2 - two ball fields
Marine tourism infrastructure - expanded visitor moorage and facilities at their community marina (1.7 Million)
By encouraging and supporting growth and diversification, Ladysmith aims to create and maintain a vibrant, healthy economy for many years to come.
Economic Drivers:
- Marine
- Forestry
- Aquaculture
- Retail Services
- Technology Services
- Tourism
Growth Prospects for Ladysmith:
Marine Manufacturing: Ladysmith’s excellent natural harbour and marina facilities make it a perfect fit for a variety of marine-related industries, and many of their workers are already highly knowledgeable and skilled in these areas.
Professional Services: Many knowledge-based businesses can compete globally from anywhere, and more and more entrepreneurs are choosing quality of life over big city living. Ladysmith’s atmosphere, coupled with incredible recreational opportunities and excellent amenities, makes it an ideal location for professionals wanting to live a relaxed West Coast lifestyle.
Tourism Infrastructure: Tourism is a strong focus of the Ladysmith economy, and they have achieved success as a tourist destination thanks to their beautiful natural surroundings, heritage architecture and small-town charm. This sector will continue to expand significantly as new marina amenities and spa/resort-type accommodations are developed.
Wood Products Manufacturing: Ladysmith can offer businesses high-quality wood supplies, affordable space in industrial buildings, workers with a high degree of relevant experience in wood products and value-added manufacturing and access to appropriate markets on the Island and in the Lower Mainland.
Food and Beverage Processing: This industry already has a presence in the area and expansion is a real possibility. Ladysmith’s proximity to the Cowichan Valley and other agricultural areas, as well as our excellent transportation corridors, means we have access to many high-quality agricultural products.
