City of Vancouver set to increase housing options for families

If approved, the housing mix policy would mandate more units for families in new strata and rental developments (Canadian Press)

Vancouver council will consider measures next week designed to increase the number of family homes in new strata and rental buildings.

New policies outlined in a staff report to council would alter the housing mix in new condos by increasing the number of two and three bedroom apartments to create more options for families.

According to an official statement from Mayor Gregor Robertson, the housing mix policy "will help make our neighbourhoods more family friendly and vibrant, and ensure that as Vancouver grows, families can find housing options that work for them."

Under the proposal, developers would have to ensure at least 35 per cent of the apartments in a new building contain two or three bedrooms to accommodate families.

The policy would apply to rezonings city-wide and would supersede existing family housing requirements in council-approved community plans such as Joyce-Collingwood or the Cambie Corridor.

Council will meet, July 13, to vote on the proposal.