Four major new BC Ferries are on the way but plans for a fifth have been rejected for now.

The new ships will replace four aging vessels, the Queens of Cowichan, Alberni, Coquitlam and New Westminster.

It’s the largest capital project in the history of BC Ferries.

The first of the new vessels are expected to enter service in 2029, with all four operational by 2031.

BC Ferries had requested permission to build a fifth ship at the same time to increase capacity in the system.

All decisions on major capital expenditures for BC Ferries have to go through the BC Ferry Commission, an independent regulator that also sets the limit on average fare and reservation increases.

This week BC Ferries commissioner Eva Hage released her 32 page decision on BC Ferries application for new vessels, giving the go ahead to the four replacement ships, but rejecting the application for a fifth.

Midcoast Morning speaks with Hage and BC Ferries CEO Nicolas Jimenez about the development.

Vancouver Island University is getting set to search for a new president.

Last week current president Deborah Saucier announced her resignation as of April fourth.

The move followed a vote of non confidence in her leadership from the VIU Faculty Association and a call for her removal from the Vancouver Island University Students Union (VIUSU).

Midcoast Morning speaks with a representative from VIUSU about their hopes for the change.

Plus this weekend voters in and around Oceanside will decide on the fate of substantial upgrades to the Ravensong Aquatic Centre in Qualicum Beach.

Parksville Mayor Doug O’Brien shares the journey the project has taken to reach this stage.

Nanaimo’s northern gateway could look very different in 20 years.

The city is refining its plan for the Woodgrove area, and aims to add much denser housing to an area currently covered in concrete and chain stores.

Midcoast Morning speaks with Kasia Biegun from The City of Nanaimo planning department, and Michael Bassili of Strong Towns Nanaimo about the area.