Vancouver proposes major zoning overhaul for Broadway and Cambie plan areas

Vancouver is considering a major overhaul of its zoning and development bylaws to support the Broadway and Cambie Corridor plans.

The sweeping reform could reshape how thousands of new homes are built along key transit corridors.

The controversial recommendation is being brought before city council Tuesday, but not without pushback.

The proposal introduces new standardized residential zones – low-rise, mid-rise and high-rise –that would replace Vancouver’s current piecemeal approach. Roughly 4,300 parcels would be affected.

Instead of requiring a lengthy site-specific rezoning process, developers could move straight to applying for building permits. This change could potentially save 12 to 15 months and cut down on costs.

The city says this could speed up the delivery of housing, including more family-oriented two-and three-bedroom units.

But streamlining the process would also mean fewer public hearings, and some residents say that limits their ability to voice concerns, especially about building heights, traffic and parking.

If council approves the proposal, it will be referred to a public hearing and staff will draft bylaws.