Vancouver’s West End Community Plan received the Planning Institute of British Columbia’s 2014 Excellence in Policy Planning Award (City and Urban Areas) in May.
The plan was adopted by city council in November 2013. As demand for new development in Vancouver grows, the West End Community Plan aims to ensure that future growth meets the needs of new and existing community members. The plan focuses on neighbourhood character, housing, local business, heritage, transportation and parking.
As the recipient of the prestigious Excellence in Policy Planning Award, the plan was recognized for its policies surrounding:
- Housing, with density bonus zoning for secured market rental and social housing, and rental laneway infill housing;
- Business, with the Villages Strategy for revitalizing local shopping areas;
- Public benefits, with improvements to public spaces and enhancing walking routes, and a detailed public benefits strategy; and
- Diversity, by recognizing and strengthening the area as a hub for LGBTQ communities.
The plan was also recognized for its public engagement process, which involves a diverse group of people from different ages, cultural backgrounds and income levels. People from all walks of life were asked for their help in developing the West End Community Plan, including homeowners, renters, business owners, LGBTQ communities and other local community groups.
The West End Community Plan will be implemented in Vancouver over the next 30 years.
