Grandview-Woodland’s Britannia site at the heart of a long-term vision to reshape services, housing, and public space

After years of planning and community dialogue, the ambitious Britannia Renewal Project continues to evolve—though its full realization remains on hold as key funding and construction timelines remain uncertain. Located in Vancouver’s vibrant Grandview-Woodland neighbourhood, the 18-acre Britannia Community Services Centre (BCSC) is the focus of a bold transformation aiming to deliver inclusive, culturally rooted, and future-ready facilities and public amenities.

A Vision Rooted in Community and Reconciliation

First opened in 1976, the Britannia Community Services Centre has long served as a unique hub combining education, recreation, library services, and social programming. The current renewal effort, led by the City of Vancouver in partnership with the Britannia Community Services Society (BCSCS), the Vancouver Park Board, Vancouver Public Library, and Vancouver School Board, reimagines this public space to meet the complex needs of today’s communities—especially Indigenous peoples and historically marginalized groups.

The project’s guiding vision, approved unanimously by Vancouver City Council in 2018, is to create a “welcoming and inclusive community place” centered on reconciliation, cultural expression, social connection, and sustainability. Key values include accessibility, shared stewardship, community well-being, and architectural excellence—all grounded in a respectful relationship with the xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples on whose land the site sits.

*Photo by City of Vancouver

Deep Dive Engagement: Listening to a Diverse Community

Between 2021 and 2022, an intensive engagement phase known as the “Deep Dive” brought together more than 3,000 participants through interviews, workshops, listening sessions, and a virtual open house. Special care was taken to center Indigenous voices, equity-seeking groups, youth, and low-income residents. Key takeaways emphasized:

• A strong call to prioritize reconciliation through visible Indigenous design elements, language, art, and cultural space.

• The need for safe, accessible public areas, including expanded green spaces and gathering areas for festivals, ceremonies, fitness, and food security.

• Broad community interest in affordable non-market housing, particularly for seniors, artists, and Indigenous families—though not without some concerns about density, public land use, and loss of green space.

• Urgent desire for flexible programming space that adapts to evolving community needs, such as child care, mental health services, youth programming, and outreach support.

• Importance of continuity in services during the phased renewal process, ensuring no loss of vital community resources.

Non-Market Housing: A Conversation in Progress

One of the project’s most discussed and debated aspects is the proposal to incorporate non-market housing—potentially 200–300 units—on site. While many residents see this as a much-needed response to Vancouver’s housing crisis, others voice concern about the impact on public land use, green space, and the community centre’s core identity.

The city has made no final decisions on unit numbers or building heights, and there is no selected housing operator yet. A mix of affordability levels is being considered, with emphasis on deeply affordable homes tied to household income, especially for populations at risk of displacement.

Feedback continues to inform housing discussions, with Indigenous-led housing, co-op models, and artist-in-residence concepts gaining traction as potential solutions that blend cultural relevance and social impact.

From Planning to Maintenance: The Shift in 2023

As of mid-2023, the project hit a financial bottleneck. While some early-phase design and rezoning work had secured funding, the larger construction budget remains unfunded. As a result, project partners have pivoted toward addressing critical maintenance of existing facilities to ensure community services continue uninterrupted.

However, this is not a retreat from renewal. Instead, it reflects the realities of complex capital projects in an uncertain funding climate. The extensive community engagement and planning work already completed will form the groundwork for future renewal efforts—once sustainable funding is secured.

What Comes Next?

The City and its partners had hoped to finalize a preferred site plan by 2022 and submit a rezoning application by mid-2023. While that timeline has been delayed, community members remain engaged, with expectations of renewed activity once provincial and federal funding opportunities re-emerge.

Until then, the Britannia Renewal Project serves as a compelling case study of urban renewal done thoughtfully—with time, care, and deep community collaboration.

Curious how the future of Grandview-Woodland could change with the Britannia renewal?
We’re watching this project closely as it reflects not just physical development, but the cultural and social evolution of one of Vancouver’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. Want to stay ahead of the changes? Let’s talk.

A bold reimagining of one of Vancouver’s most iconic neighbourhoods is underway. The City of Vancouver has unveiled plans to revitalize Davie Village — the heart of the West End’s commercial and cultural life — with a sweeping redesign that will bring wider sidewalks, more public seating, greener infrastructure, and a stronger platform for celebrating 2SLGBTQ+ and Indigenous identities. The initiative, known as Davie Village: Space for People, builds on the 2013 West End Community Plan and is entering its final planning stages following extensive public engagement.

A People-First Vision for Davie Street

The project zeroes in on the stretch of Davie Street between Burrard and Jervis, aiming to deliver a pedestrian-friendly streetscape where people feel welcome to stroll, gather, and connect. As the first step in a broader strategy to enhance walkability and public life across the West End’s three commercial streets — Davie, Robson, and Denman — this redesign represents a significant shift in urban planning for the area.

The project sets out three clear community-driven goals:

1. More space to stroll

2. Support for local businesses

3. A more welcoming and vibrant public realm

Based on thousands of comments and surveys collected through 2023 and early 2024, the proposed redesign is rooted in what residents, visitors, and business owners say they want to see.

Wider Sidewalks, Safer Crossings, and a Greener Streetscape

Perhaps the most transformative change is the expansion of pedestrian space. The plan calls for sidewalks to nearly double in size, growing from around 2,500 square metres to 4,700 square metres. This increased space will support easier navigation, especially for those with mobility challenges, and include mid-block crossings, more benches, accessible bus stops, and thoughtfully placed accessible parking.

Survey data from February 2024 shows strong support for this direction — especially among younger people and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, many of whom consider Davie Village a cultural touchstone. Businesses also saw the promise in wider sidewalks, citing potential increases in foot traffic and customer engagement.

One point of contention? The consolidation of transit stops, particularly at Thurlow Street. While intended to improve service reliability, some seniors and people with disabilities raised accessibility concerns. The city is now reviewing that feedback in final design discussions.

Patios, Pick-Up Zones, and Public Art: Supporting Local Business and Community Identity

The redesign includes creative solutions to support local business — a key tenet of the West End Community Plan. By moving patios closer to buildings and widening sidewalks, the plan creates more flexible space for businesses to add outdoor seating and displays without crowding out pedestrians. In fact, sidewalk patio space is set to grow by 200%.

The city also plans to replace some curbside parking with pick-up/drop-off zones and accessible stalls, while reminding residents that over 250 off-street parking spots already exist in Davie Village. While some businesses, particularly those on the 1000 block near medical offices, expressed concern about losing nearby parking, a majority of survey respondents felt the plan strikes the right balance.

On cycling infrastructure, however, opinions were more divided. Though improved bike parking is part of the proposal, some residents pushed for a protected bike lane, suggesting that the current approach doesn't go far enough to support safe micro-mobility access.

Visibility, Inclusivity, and Safety at the Heart of the Redesign

The third pillar of the project — a more welcoming and vibrant street — places community identity front and centre. New seating, improved lighting, expanded tree canopy, and celebration of the 2SLGBTQ+ community are all key features.

The plan includes relocating the Heart of Davie sign, created by Jim Balakshin, to a more prominent location, as well as refreshing the iconic rainbow crosswalk at Bute and Davie. The city also intends to collaborate with local First Nations to honour the area's Indigenous heritage.

Public seating is broadly supported, though concerns about homelessness and safety were noted. To address this, the city is working closely with local groups to determine bench locations and increase evening lighting and visibility. While 71% of visitors feel safe in Davie Village, only 55% said lighting was sufficient, particularly at night.

Timeline and Next Steps: What’s Coming and When

The project will unfold in two phases:

• Phase 1 (Jervis to Thurlow): Detailed design work is underway, with construction expected between Fall 2024 and Summer 2025.

• Phase 2 (Thurlow to Burrard): Implementation will follow after additional community engagement, especially around balancing sidewalk improvements with business access and anticipated land use changes in the Burrard Corridor.

Further improvements to Robson and Denman streets will be explored beginning in 2025.

Looking Ahead

Davie Village: Space for People isn’t just a streetscape upgrade — it’s a blueprint for how Vancouver can build inclusive, climate-resilient, and people-centered public spaces. As the city finalizes its designs and prepares for construction, the future of Davie Street promises to be one where culture, commerce, and community flourish together.

Curious how this could shape the future of the West End? We’re keeping a close eye on projects like this so our clients always stay informed. Want to be one of them?

A transformative new plan to reshape drainage, park space, and urban livability in the Cambie Corridor is gaining momentum—anchored by a bold vision for Alberta Street and Columbia Park.

As population growth and climate change exert increasing pressure on Vancouver’s infrastructure, the City is moving forward with an innovative green infrastructure project in the Cambie Corridor. The Alberta Street Blue Green System and Columbia Park Renewal Project promises to overhaul how water, nature, and people interact in the city—shifting from traditional pipe networks to nature-inspired systems that are more resilient, sustainable, and community-focused.

*Photo by City of Vancouver

Turning Rainwater Into a Resource

The Cambie Corridor is one of Vancouver’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, with new multi-family homes, businesses, and transportation routes demanding smarter urban systems. One major issue? The area’s aging combined sewer and drainage systems can’t handle the load—especially as intense rain events become more common.

Instead of relying on larger pipes, the City is embracing a new philosophy: the blue green system. Along Alberta Street, from West 37th to 45th Avenue, rainwater will be managed using soil, vegetation, and natural landscapes that treat and absorb water on-site. These systems filter out pollutants, relieve pressure on sewer infrastructure, and mimic the natural water cycle—all while creating inviting park-like streets.

This approach is at the heart of the redesign for Alberta Street, envisioned as a “park connector” that links Queen Elizabeth Park, Oakridge Centre, and Columbia Park—potentially forming part of a larger ecological corridor that could one day stretch to the Fraser River.

A New Kind of Street: Nature Meets Urban Design

Three design concepts for Alberta Street were explored during public engagement, and the community response was clear. The most support (47%) went to Concept 3, which features one-way traffic and car-free blocks to maximize space for nature, pedestrian paths, and rainwater infrastructure. This concept puts people—and ecosystems—first, with the highest potential for enhancing biodiversity, urban canopy cover, and social interaction.

A majority of survey participants voiced strong interest in elements like separated cycling paths (85% support), expanded tree and planting areas (63%), and sidewalk seating and gathering spaces. Concept 3’s minimal vehicle access resonated with many residents seeking a safer, greener, and more climate-resilient community.

However, some concerns were raised around vehicle access, parking, and traffic circulation—especially for residents along the corridor. The final street design will likely blend the best aspects of all three options to balance livability with accessibility.

Columbia Park: A Green Hub for a Growing Neighborhood

Just steps away, Columbia Park is also set for a major renewal, transforming it into a multifunctional green space that anchors the blue green system. Recognized as a vital public benefit under the Cambie Corridor Plan, the park will be upgraded to meet future demand while offering opportunities for nature, recreation, and stormwater management.

Public engagement revealed a close split between Concepts A and B. Concept A emphasized active recreation, with a sports field and fitness areas covering about 70% of the site. Concept B proposed a more balanced design, preserving roughly 60% of the park for natural areas like bioswales, habitat zones, and native plantings—while still including sports and fitness amenities.

While only 26% preferred Concept C, which emphasized near-total naturalization, it highlighted public appreciation for quiet, nature-rich spaces in an increasingly urban area. Ultimately, the final design is expected to blend these concepts—keeping sports fields (ranked the top amenity) while expanding habitat areas and integrating green rainwater infrastructure throughout.

A Vision Years in the Making

The Alberta Street and Columbia Park initiative aligns with several long-term City strategies, including the Rain City Strategy, VanPlay Master Plan, the Cambie Corridor Public Realm Plan, and the Climate Change Adaptation Strategy. These policies all point to a future where infrastructure does double-duty—managing utilities while enhancing livability, biodiversity, and equity.

The project also benefits from academic insights, including conceptual designs from UBC School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture students. Though not all proposals may be feasible, they’ve helped shape community imagination around what’s possible in a renewed urban park.

What’s Next?

The project is currently in Phase 4, with the final master plan expected by early 2025. Once approved by City Council and the Park Board, the design will guide future construction. However, implementation is not yet funded—capital investment will be considered in the 2027–2030 planning cycle.

Curious how this could shape the future of Cambie Corridor? We’re keeping a close eye on projects like this so our clients always stay informed. Want to be one of them?

In a major step toward housing diversity and affordability, Vancouver has officially greenlit a sweeping initiative to bring “missing middle” housing to its traditionally low-density neighbourhoods. Approved in September 2023 and now in the implementation phase, the project introduces multiplexes and consolidates complex zoning rules into a more accessible framework — all with the goal of easing Vancouver’s housing crunch and creating more inclusive communities.

Multiplexes to Replace One-Size-Fits-All Zoning

The heart of the new policy is the introduction of multiplex housing — typically 3 to 6 units on a single lot, with up to 8 if all units are secured as rental — across all low-density (RS) zones in the city. This long-anticipated move aims to address the “missing middle” gap: housing options that sit between detached houses and large apartment buildings, which have been in short supply despite growing demand from families and working professionals alike.

To qualify, multiplexes must generally follow new development guidelines:

• Floor Space Ratio (FSR): Up to 1.0, with incentives for rental or below-market units.

• Height: Up to 3 storeys, with above-grade designs encouraged over basements.

• Family-Friendly Units: A focus on two-bedroom-plus layouts.

• Parking: On-site car parking is not required, though underground options remain.

Not every property will qualify — sites lacking rear lanes, located in floodplains, or slightly under the minimum lot size may not meet criteria. Still, the change opens thousands of parcels to greater housing potential.

Simplifying the Rules: Nine Zones Become One

Alongside the push for new housing types, the city has overhauled its notoriously complicated RS zoning system. Nine existing low-density zones have now been streamlined into a single R1-1 Residential Inclusive zone.

The simplification does more than just reduce red tape. It’s designed to:

• Make development rules clearer for builders and homeowners.

• Allow for greater design flexibility within a consistent framework.

• Eliminate the need for public notifications or discretionary design reviews.

• Align application processes with the city’s tech-enabled 3-3-3-1 permit framework.

This unified approach aims to cut wait times, reduce staff strain, and remove the guesswork around what can be built where — all while supporting the city's sustainability and housing diversity goals.

Why This Matters: Addressing Affordability and Choice

Vancouver’s housing landscape has long been skewed toward high-cost detached homes and large-scale apartment projects. For families seeking more space, or for downsizers not ready to give up their neighbourhoods, the lack of options has been a growing pain point.

This initiative is a direct response to those concerns, shaped by public input from over 1,900 survey responses and more than 65,000 online interactions. Residents consistently expressed support for more varied housing options — particularly those that prioritize affordability, sustainability, and family suitability.

Yet, it hasn’t been without debate. Some residents have raised flags about parking, tree loss, school capacity, and potential changes to neighbourhood character. Others question whether multiplexes truly offer affordable options or whether they simply replace one expensive home with several expensive units.

Implementation Now Underway

Following approval at a Public Hearing in September 2023, the City entered its implementation phase. By-laws were enacted in late fall, and permit applications for multiplexes began in December 2023. To ease the transition, City staff developed a How-To Guide, launched enquiry sessions, and built in a window for in-progress applications to adapt.

Other resources, such as multilingual housing menus, illustrative visuals, and detailed FAQs, are helping residents understand the new regulations and what they mean for individual properties.

The Bigger Picture

This move is part of a broader planning effort that includes the Vancouver Plan, Housing Vancouver Strategy, and the Making Home motion — all of which aim to create a city that works for more people, not just a privileged few. As part of the shift toward “Right Supply” housing, the city hopes the Missing Middle strategy can deliver real results in terms of affordability, livability, and equity.

Curious what this could mean for your neighbourhood or your property?
We’re watching these changes closely to help our clients stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market. Want expert insight on how the new rules apply to your block? Let’s talk.

The City of Vancouver is reimagining a beloved yet dwindling piece of urban life: the corner store. Under the aptly named “Corner stores and more!” project, the city is working to make small-scale retail a regular part of residential life once again, aligning with its broader Vancouver Plan to build more complete, connected communities.

Corner Stores at the Heart of Community Life

For many long-time Vancouver residents, corner stores were once part of the daily rhythm—where you’d pick up fresh milk, bump into neighbours, and catch up on local news. In the 1920s, these stores numbered in the hundreds across the city, serving not just as commercial outlets but as informal community hubs.

However, decades of zoning changes and regulatory hurdles have eroded their presence. From 302 convenience store licenses in 2008, the number had dropped to 226 by 2018. Many older stores were unable to adapt or faced closure, while new ones struggled to open under outdated regulations. The rise in property taxes and land costs further compounded these challenges.

Now, a growing chorus of urban planners, city staff, and engaged residents is calling for a shift. They argue these small shops are key to revitalizing neighbourhood life—especially in a post-pandemic world where people are working from home and seeking local amenities more than ever.

A New Chapter for Neighbourhood Retail

“Corner stores and more!” is part of a broader effort tied to the Vancouver Plan, a 2022 council-approved strategy to guide the city’s growth through inclusivity, sustainability, and livability. One of the plan’s key pillars is creating “complete neighbourhoods,” where residents can access goods, services, and social spaces within a short walk or bike ride from home.

The project has already seen some early wins. Following a 2020 motion introduced by Councillor Sarah Kirby-Yung, the city began updating zoning bylaws to make it easier for small grocers and retailers to operate within residential zones. In 2021, Council passed zoning amendments to loosen restrictions and streamline approvals for new businesses and corner-store-style developments.

From summer to fall 2023, the City conducted public engagement to gather input on what types of small shops residents want and where they should go. The response was significant, with events held across six neighbourhoods—including Kitsilano, Kerrisdale, and Strathcona—alongside an online survey and digital map feature for sharing memories of favourite local stores.

A Legacy Worth Reviving

Public interest in the corner store revival taps into more than just convenience. A 2019 joint study by the City of Vancouver and UBC emphasized the role these spaces play in strengthening social bonds. They aren’t just about groceries—they’re about connection.

Stores like Le Marche St. George in Riley Park, The Wilder Snail in Strathcona, and The Mighty Oak in Mount Pleasant are modern examples of how this model can thrive. Older establishments such as Benny’s Market on Union Street, a fixture for over a century in a heritage building, also continue to serve their communities.

One particularly symbolic story is that of The Cardero Grocery in the West End. Built in 1902 and shuttered in 2017, the heritage property is now being restored—with plans to reopen the store. It's a potent example of how Vancouver might blend heritage preservation with community renewal.

What Comes Next

Following last year’s engagement phase, city planners are now preparing a summary of public feedback, expected in late 2023. That information, paired with technical analysis, will inform policy and regulatory changes scheduled for 2024.

While exact details are still to come, the direction is clear: Vancouver is laying the groundwork for a city where corner stores once again dot the residential landscape—not as relics, but as active ingredients in a more connected, walkable, and community-focused future.

Curious how this could shape the future of your neighbourhood? Projects like “Corner stores and more!” signal a shift toward prioritizing local life and amenities. We’re keeping a close eye on developments like this—so our clients always stay informed. Want to be one of them?

A beloved corner of Mount Pleasant is getting a thoughtful refresh. The Neighbourhood Plaza at Main Street and 14th Avenue — a community hub since its installation in 2018 — is set for a series of improvements aimed at making the space greener, more accessible, and even more welcoming. With construction slated for fall 2024 and a reimagined plaza ready for 2025, the transformation builds on years of community events, public feedback, and City planning.

From Pop-Up Plaza to Community Fixture

Originally launched as part of Vancouver’s Pavement-to-Plaza program, the Neighbourhood Plaza at Main and 14th began as an experiment in urban placemaking. What started as a temporary public space with movable seating, planters, and a vibrant on-street mural has become a cornerstone of Mount Pleasant’s social fabric.

The site also features Vancouver’s very first parklet — a cozy public platform installed in 2011 in front of JJ Bean — a sign of the area's long-standing commitment to pedestrian-friendly design. Today, the plaza includes a bike share station, delineated bike lane, and an adjacent bus bulb that eases boarding for transit riders.

Notably, the bus bulb — a sidewalk extension into the parking lane — was temporarily replaced in 2020 with quick-install materials during the COVID-19 pandemic to support physical distancing. That temporary fix is now on track to be upgraded permanently as part of the broader plaza improvements.

A Hub for Events and Everyday Enjoyment

The plaza has emerged as more than just a pedestrian refuge; it's a gathering place. In 2022 alone, it hosted over 20 community-led events, including markets and concerts spotlighting local artists. By early 2023, another 22 events had already been booked.

According to a wellbeing assessment by an external consultant in 2018, the plaza was found to be both inclusive and socially enriching — a place where residents could interact and feel a sense of belonging. That endorsement laid the groundwork for the City’s decision to invest in long-term upgrades.

What’s Coming: Greener, Brighter, and More Accessible

In May 2023, the City launched Phase 1 of public engagement, inviting residents to share ideas for improving the plaza. Feedback channels included an online survey and in-person pop-ups held at the site. Suggestions focused on enhancing functionality and comfort, with five key areas emerging:

• Better lighting for evening safety and ambiance

• More varied seating to accommodate different groups and uses

• Greener infrastructure, including new trees, landscaping, and rainwater management systems

• Improved access for pedestrians and people with mobility aids

• Expanded sidewalk space near the bus stop to ease crowding

One frequently asked question raised during this process was, “What is green rainwater infrastructure?” — a nod to growing public interest in sustainable, permeable design that helps cities adapt to climate change.

*Photos by City of Vancouver

What’s Next: From Design to Construction

With the first phase of community input complete as of May 2023, City staff are now developing a proposed design, informed by what they heard from locals. A second round of public engagement — focused on the proposed upgrades — was scheduled for Fall 2023. Final design work is expected to wrap in early 2024, followed by construction beginning later that year.

If everything stays on track, the upgraded Neighbourhood Plaza at Main and 14th will reopen to the public in 2025, offering a revitalized space tailored to the needs and desires of the Mount Pleasant community.

Curious how this transformation could impact life in Mount Pleasant? We’re keeping a close eye on public space upgrades like this so you don’t miss a beat. Want to stay informed on what’s next for Vancouver’s neighbourhoods? Let’s connect.

False Creek South — a unique waterfront neighbourhood nestled between the Cambie and Burrard Street bridges — is at the heart of one of Vancouver’s most consequential planning processes. With expiring land leases and mounting pressure to address the city’s housing affordability crisis, the City of Vancouver is revisiting the future of this 55-hectare community it helped pioneer in the 1970s.

Once a progressive experiment in urban planning, False Creek South may soon evolve again — this time to serve a new generation of Vancouverites while addressing modern challenges like climate resilience, social equity, and housing need.

A Legacy Community at a Crossroads

False Creek South was transformed from an industrial brownfield into a mixed-tenure neighbourhood that became a global model for inclusive city building. Today, however, the community’s future is shadowed by the looming expiration of long-term land leases issued by the City during the 1970s and 1980s. Roughly 1,800 homes sit on City-owned land, and most leases will expire between 2036 and 2046 — with some co-ops facing earlier deadlines.

This lease uncertainty has created growing anxiety for current residents. Many of them helped build the tight-knit, mixed-income community, and they now face a future where their tenure — and the neighbourhood’s identity — may be reshaped.

In 2017, the City launched a formal planning process to consider the long-term use of its 80 acres of property in False Creek South, managed under its Property Endowment Fund. The goal: to chart a sustainable and inclusive future while also addressing Vancouver’s wider housing crisis.

*Photos by City of Vancouver

A Community Conversation, Paused but Not Forgotten

The first phase of public engagement ran from 2017 to 2018 and drew input from over 1,800 participants. Residents, planners, and civic stakeholders weighed in on housing, transportation, sustainability, and the character of the neighbourhood. The result was a set of provisional planning principles and a vision for “incremental growth” — a concept supporting gradual redevelopment while retaining community values.

But when it became clear that lease negotiations were too complex to resolve in parallel, detailed planning was put on hold. In 2021, the City revisited the conversation through a broader engagement effort to explore how its lands — including those in False Creek South — could help meet city-wide priorities.

Public feedback confirmed strong support for exploring affordable housing options on City-owned lands. A majority of respondents — including 63% of False Creek South residents and 80% of the general public surveyed — endorsed the idea of redevelopment that delivers affordability, sustainability, and equity.

Yet, key differences also emerged. Local residents expressed greater concern about lease clarity and were more hesitant about introducing additional affordable or rental housing types compared to respondents city-wide. They championed maintaining the original 1/3 mix of co-op, non-market rental, and leasehold strata, highlighting the community’s social fabric and internal subsidies provided by co-ops.

A Vision for the Future

While full planning remains paused pending lease negotiations, the City’s provisional vision outlines a renewed False Creek South that is resilient, inclusive, and connected. Ten guiding principles set the stage for a neighbourhood that preserves its legacy while welcoming thoughtful change. These include:

• Maintaining affordability and social diversity

• Expanding housing options for families, seniors, and essential workers

• Planning for climate change and shoreline stability

• Enhancing mobility through cycling, walking, and transit upgrades

• Strengthening community amenities and green spaces

Stakeholders also stressed the importance of responsible financial planning, suggesting that market housing revenue could help fund affordable and non-market homes — a point of agreement among city-wide respondents but met with some caution from locals.

Challenges Ahead

Despite broad agreement on the neighbourhood’s potential role in addressing Vancouver’s housing needs, challenges persist. Lease expiry timelines create an urgent need for clarity. Residents worry about displacement and losing the community they’ve built. And differing views on density, building types, and the pace of change pose ongoing tensions.

Still, many see this as an opportunity — to renew a landmark neighbourhood while honouring its foundational values.

Looking Ahead

With City Council directing staff to resume formal planning when lease issues are resolved, the future of False Creek South remains an open question. But one thing is clear: the decisions made here will ripple far beyond its shores.

Curious how the False Creek South redevelopment could reshape the future of Vancouver’s core? We’re keeping a close eye on this process so our clients and community stay ahead of what’s next. Want to be one of them?