The Vancouver Park Board has approved a staff recommendation to make Stanley Park Brewing the new tenant for the former Fish House.

"It's a great fit because they have a history and they have a connection to the park, and they're ongoing supporters of the park," said park board chair Sarah Kirby-Yung.

The building was formerly occupied by SilverBirch Hotels and Resorts, but has been sitting empty since 2015.

The proposed design for the site includes onsite brewing, a tasting room, a renovated bar, a covered patio and special event and dining areas.

Other improvements include upgraded public washrooms, an enhanced concession area and a new bike service station.

An artist rendition of the main hall, bar and brewery extension of the Stanley Park Brewering location to replace the former Fish House restaurant. (Vancouver Park Board)

The staff report says the renovations will be made while maintaining heritage elements of the site.

According to the report, the building was originally constructed in the 1920s as a sports pavilion for golfers and tennis players using the nearby facilities.

The renovations are estimated at $4.5 million.

"I'm really excited that our staff are continuing to look at new opportunities for consumers," Kirby-Yung said, adding she will be voting in favour of the recommendation.

An artist rendition of the new concession and bike service areas of the Stanley Park Brewery if a staff recommendation that it take over the former Fish House is approved. (Vancouver Park Board)

Kirby-Yung said the brewery's contributions to the park include creating a special batch of beer from which the proceeds help support the Stanley Park Ecology Society.

She said the brewery also supported the city's 125th anniversary party, which took place in the park.

Park Board commissioners voted in favour of the staff report on Monday night, allowing them to begin negotiating a lease.

Kirby-Yung said detailed planning will be required to determine when the site will open.