The residential development would be built around the First Baptist Church of Vancouver
UPDATE: The controversial 57-storey tower proposed for Burrard and Nelson (see original story below) was approved by Vancouver City Council July 26. After two days of public hearings, during which the public voiced their concerns over the towers drastically changing the neighbourhood, blocking natural light to other buildings and reducing green space in the area, the Westbank development was given the green light. Councillor Tim Stevenson responded to opponents by saying the proposal is "well within the West End plan demanded by West Enders."
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A 57-storey residential development at the corner of Burrard and Nelson is set for a public hearing at City Hall at 6pm today, Tuesday, July 18.
The proposed new development involves two towers built alongside Vancouver's historic First Baptist Church, the first of which would be a 57-storey tower made up of 311 market-rate condo units and a second seven-storey tower made up of 61 social-housing units. The project is being proposed to the City by the First Baptist Church of Vancouver and Westbank Corp.
The towers, to be designed by Bing Thom Architects, include integration with the church to provide additional community program spaces, offices and daycare in additional to residential units. The church would also receive seismic upgrades as a part of the redevelopment.
Photo: Bing Thom Architects
Burrard Nelson Tower 2
The dual-tower, 57-storey development includes a daycare, community kitchen and gardens in addition to residential units
Photo: Bing Thom Architects
Burrard Nelson Tower 2
The towers' design includes outdoor breezeways, which reduces the buildings' reliance on air conditioning by encouraging natural ventilation
Photo: Google Maps
Burrard Nelson Tower
The development is slated for 969 Burrard Street, at the corner of Burrard and Nelson in downtown Vancouver
