Vancouver’s Chinatown is desperate for survival. The second largest Chinatown in North America has seen a declining population, businesses closing and many others struggling to stay in business.
So this month the Vancouver City Council approved the first development since the lifting of height limits in Chinatown. , according to the Globe & Mail.
A seven story mixed used building with a 17 story residential tower was approved unanimously last week. A 16 story highrise on the same block is also expected to be approved.
“I don’t really agree with the height of those buildings, but I accept it,” said 77-year-old Fred Mah of the area’s Heritage Buildings Association. “We want people to return to Chinatown, to live and shop there again. I just wish the designs had more cultural characteristics.”
You can read more reaction to the decision in the Globe & Mail.
