Here is a recent article from Ming Pao Canada, as translated by the Youth Collaborative for Chinatown :
A new proposal of the condo project next to Chinatown Memorial Square was once again opposed by the Chinese community stating it is nothing new. The Chinese community should take action, like what happened at First Shaughnessy District, to strive for Chinatown being designated a Heritage Conservation Area by Vancouver city council.
Last month, a new proposal to develop 105 Keefer from Beedie Living was put forward for the third time. Apparently, they made several adjustments, such as the plot ratio and building height, to give way to the nearby Chinatown Memorial Square and Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.
UBC Professor Henry Yu disapproves of the new proposal from Beedie saying the building’s total square footage is still high. Not only does the new proposal mainly focus on selling condo units, but also the number of apartments for seniors remains the same as before at 25 units.
Yu says the numerous suggestions from the Chinese community has fallen on the developer’s deaf ears. The real motive behind the similar proposal submitted for the third time is to tire out community opposition to accept the proposal without any alternative. He thinks it is a childish act and he is disappointed.
Yu emphasizes his support for any new development to make Chinatown a better place to be. When seniors housing is the most immediate need, the number of apartments for seniors is just not enough. He states if the number increases to 200 units, he would support Beedie’s proposal.
Yu thinks the Chinese community cannot keep saying no; otherwise, the issue will not be resolved. He thinks the Chinese community should take back the initiative to have a say on new development in Chinatown. He suggests Chinatown should refer to what happened at Shaughnessy and persuade the City of Vancouver to designate Chinatown as a Heritage Conservation Area by limiting the density of development, controlling the number of condos in the market, increasing seniors housing, supporting small businesses and encouraging young Chinese to participate in the development of Chinatown. The designation will help to preserve Chinatown.
Bill Yuen from Heritage Vancouver Society also thinks the new proposal has no major difference than the previous ones, except a minor structural change. It neither responses to concerns of the community nor improves the mutual relationship between the community and residents.
City of Vancouver will host an open house in May 16.
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