VANCOUVER – A policy adopted by the City of Vancouver in 1997 that was meant to provide guidance for its tallest buildings downtown is going under review.
According to the city, the Higher Buildings Policy review will explore whether and how increased height allowances in “key areas” of the highly built-up downtown peninsula could contribute to public benefits and city-building objectives, and advance initiatives, including the implementation of the approved Granville Street Plan.
“The review is also an opportunity to intentionally shape Vancouver’s skyline by supporting architectural excellence, while balancing livability and sustainability,” a release outlines. “Protected public views are an important consideration that helps guide where taller buildings may be appropriate — and where they are not. Protected public views will not be reviewed or updated as part of this work.”
The city is currently holding its first round of public engagement with several ways for residents and stakeholders to get involved and help shape the future of Vancouver’s skyline:
Pop-up events: City staff will be at a variety of locations for a series of pop-up events.
Vancouver Lookout Exhibit (555 West Hastings St.): Visitors to the exhibit will have an opportunity to get a bird’s eye view of the downtown, participate in interactive activities and share their perspective on the trade-offs and considerations of the Higher Buildings Policy. Three sessions that are free for B.C. residents are taking place:
Sunday, May 3 from 2 to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, May 6 from 6 to 9 p.m.
Saturday, May 9 from 10 a.m. to 6p.m.
This first phase of engagement will conclude with an Ideas Competition.
Feedback will inform the policy approaches that will be shared with the public as part of engagement in early 2027.