There are proposed options for neighbourhoods where there are higher concentrations of character homes

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) -Vancouver is trying to balance the urgent need for more housing with a desire to keep character homes in several neighbourhoods. The city is trying to get public input on how to get more old home owners to help increase the low housing supply.

Next week the Character Home Zoning Review launches with a series of public consultation meetings to look at options for retaining character or heritage homes while still creating more housing.

Right now character home owners and developers may consider tearing down an older building despite protests from neighbours which want to keep a certain look to the neighbourhood.

City Planner Anita Molaro says they are considering a number of possible incentives for people who own a home built before 1940 and to turn them into multi-family homes, while keeping the building’s original character.

“Maybe they can have two secondary suites. Maybe they can do a strata unit in-fill instead of a laneway house,” explains Anita Molaro.

The review will consider zoning changes in several areas of the city with higher concentrations of character homes including West Point Grey, Upper Kitsilano, Dunbar, Kerrisdale, Shaughnessy, and parts of Arbutus Ridge. They’re also focusing their attention to parts of Riley Park, Cambie Village, Kensington and a small section of Grandview.

Proposed options for these neighbourhoods would be to bring zoning in line with other areas, like Mount Pleasant, where zoning encourages the retention of character homes.

The city wants to hear from the public and it’s hosting four open houses listed below. There is also an online survey. The results of the report will go to city council next year.

Public Consultations