Vancouver council limits size of future buildings in Chinatown

Vancouver council limits size of future buildings in Chinatown

Courier staff, on July 10, 2018

Vancouver city council has approved zoning policy changes that will reduce the heights and sizes of future buildings in Chinatown.

The changes are designed “to help new development fit better with the historic and cultural character of the neighbourhood, and limit site assemblies and land speculation,” according to a July 10 City of Vancouver press release.

“These changes are the result of many years of working with the community to address the concerns we have heard about how recent new development has been out of character and has been impacting Chinatown’s culture and heritage,” said the city’s chief planner Gil Kelley in the release.

“Chinatown is a National Historic Site of Canada and an important part of Vancouver’s cultural identity. Current planning and revitalization need to respect the unique heritage and diversity of the community. These changes are part of a broader suite of revitalization strategies soon to get underway.”

The city says the approved zoning amendments mean tall and wide buildings will no longer be considered. The majority of community concerns related to buildings that were permited to exceed 90 feet in height and be built on wide lots through the Rezoning Policy for Chinatown South, bounded by Quebec, Pender, Gore and Union streets.

Original article here