Rezoning for East Vancouver detox and social housing complex approved by city council

Vancouver city councillorshave approved rezoning for a 10-storey combined detox centre and housing complex in an East Vancouver neighbourhood that drewmixed reactions from residents in the area.

The project at 1636 Clark Drive and 1321-1395 East First Avenue will now go throughthe development permit approval process, despite some Grandview-Woodland neighbourhood residents being concerned the project will be too big and too risky for the family-oriented community.

In two days of public hearings, more than 50 people spoke for andagainst the development that combines 90 social housing units, awithdrawal centre and a social enterprise space.

If the project gets through the permit approval process, construction would startin early 2020.

The City of Vancouver, the province, and Vancouver Coastal Health are partners onthe development which officials say addresses theneed for long-term affordable rental housing in the area.

There will be up to 20 transitional units for people seeking treatment for addictions and asocial enterprise space which will focus on Indigenous employment as an essential component of healing and wellness.

'1step closer to reality'

"It's great to see this innovative, mixed-use development move another step closer to reality," said Selina Robinson, B.C.'s minister of municipal affairs and housing.

"Through this one building, we'll be able to provide affordable housing, treatment supports for people who need them, and employment opportunities helping to build a healthy and resilient community."

Specific rents have not yet been determined, but the housing would serve low-to-moderate income residents, including families, singles, people with disabilities and seniors.

It would replace the current detox facilities on East Second Avenue and Harbour Lights Detox on East Cordova.

Community concern

Thomas Ferguson, who lives in the area, said thebuilding will be be too large to manageand isinappropriate and even dangerous for a residential neighbourhood.

Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart said in a statementthe development would be"responsibly and safely managed."

It is also being supported by the Vancouver Police Department, Judy Darcy, B.C.'s minister of mental health and addictions andBonnie Wilson, the director of community health services and inner-city forVancouver Coastal Health.