Lower Lonsdale’s community heartbeat is getting a powerful upgrade. The North Shore Neighbourhood Hub Redevelopment—a visionary project bringing affordable housing, critical care services, and vibrant public amenities—is officially underway, with the first phase expected to wrap up in Fall 2025.
A New Era for the North Shore Neighbourhood House
The North Shore Neighbourhood House (NSNH), a cornerstone of Lower Lonsdale since 1967, is being completely reimagined as part of a transformative multi-phase redevelopment. Situated on City-owned land between East 1st and East 2nd Streets and bordered by Saint Georges and Saint Andrews Avenues, the 0.87-hectare site will become a dynamic community hub. At its heart: a brand-new 29,000-square-foot NSNH facility, integrated with affordable housing, health services, and enhanced park space.
The City of North Vancouver, in partnership with non-profit developers and care providers, is spearheading the project to meet growing demand for community services, accessible housing, and inclusive urban design. With construction now progressing, the neighbourhood is beginning to witness a vision take shape—one rooted in equity, sustainability, and belonging.
What’s Coming: Housing, Health Services, and a Revitalized Park
Phase 1, currently under construction in the site’s northwest corner, features a six-storey building offering 89 units of below-market rental housing. Operated by Catalyst Community Developments, it also includes an 18-bed overnight adult respite care centre on the ground floor—run by the Health & Home Care Society of BC. Completion is slated for Fall 2025.
Phase 2, expected to break ground in early 2025, introduces the new NSNH facility and 179 non-profit rental homes. Rising 18 storeys in the southwest portion of the site, the mass timber building will dedicate its first three levels to the community house, which will host:
37 licensed childcare spaces
A child development program for 250 children with developmental delays
Teen clubs and youth programs
Seniors wellness and stroke recovery services
Volunteer initiatives and navigational support
And a vital food bank currently serving over 1,100 households weekly
The residential component—managed in part by Hollyburn Family Services—will include 30% below-market rentals, reinforcing the City’s focus on affordability and diverse housing options.
Phase 3 will follow in 2028 with the renewal of Derek Inman Park. The much-loved green space will be redesigned with input from the community to ensure it continues to serve as a vibrant, welcoming destination for all ages and abilities. The upgraded park will feature multiple access points, improved circulation paths, and enhanced amenities that reflect neighbourhood values.
Built on Sustainability and Inclusion
This project aligns closely with the City’s Official Community Plan and Sustainable City Framework. New buildings must meet advanced BC Energy Step Code targets and collaborate with Lonsdale Energy Corporation to minimize carbon emissions. Trees impacted during construction will be replaced, and native, drought-resistant species will feature in the landscaping.
Design guidelines emphasize transparency, safety, and accessibility. Ground floors are intended to foster casual surveillance and human connection. Building entrances will prioritize pedestrian experience, with special attention given to street activation and integrating indoor programs with outdoor park space.
The Allen Residence—a heritage “B” building on-site—will be thoughtfully incorporated to honour Lower Lonsdale’s rich history.
Community Roots, Future-Focused
NSNH has been a lifeline for Lower Lonsdale residents for decades. Its redevelopment is not just a facelift—it’s a bold step forward for the neighbourhood. The project was shaped by public engagement efforts in 2021, including online surveys and virtual information sessions. Residents voiced a desire for a community-driven identity, inclusive design, and safer, more connected public spaces—all of which have been embedded into the project’s DNA.
As Phase 2 nears construction, temporary impacts like tree removals, road closures, and playground relocations are expected. But the City has emphasized its commitment to transparency and mitigation, with regular updates and clear signage for affected areas.
Curious how this transformation could shape the future of Lower Lonsdale? We're keeping a close eye on developments like the North Shore Neighbourhood Hub Redevelopment to help our clients stay ahead of the curve. Want to be one of them?
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