Vancouver survey shows strong support for housing options

VANCOUVER—A recent survey of Vancouver residents found that adding housing was the top priority.

More housing choice in neighbourhoods across the city was identified as the public’s highest priority in a Vancouver Plan engagement report released recently, with over 75 per cent of respondents supporting more equitable housing choices in all neighbourhoods.

The other top-ranked priorities were protecting ecosystems, reducing the city’s carbon footprint, protecting local businesses and improving active transportation networks.

The survey report summarizes the results of the third phase of public engagement on the Vancouver Plan, which explored where and how the city should locate and prioritize growth to create a more livable, affordable and sustainable city. 

There were more than 6,500 points of contact in the public engagement. More than 80 per cent were in favour of low-rise apartments up to six storeys, multiplexes and townhouses in areas that are mostly single detached homes. Nearly half of respondents said mid-rise up to 12 storeys are acceptable.

The survey found 77 per cent supported rental housing options on smaller, local roads within neighbourhoods.

A majority of respondents indicated a preference for density to be spread out with more six to 12 storey buildings distributed throughout rapid transit areas, versus concentrations of over 12 storeys closer to stations. 

For shopping areas, a majority preferred density located in lower rise buildings (three to six storeys) in the surrounding neighbourhood as opposed to higher (six to 12 storey) buildings located immediately in and around the shopping area.