Vancouver Pulls Support for Controversial Kitsilano Supportive Housing Project

The City of Vancouver has officially scrapped a supportive housing project planned for Arbutus Street and 8th Avenue in Kitsilano, withdrawing its legal defence of the development following a successful court challenge by a local residents’ group.

Originally approved in 2022 under a previous council, the B.C. Housing project proposed 129 single-occupancy units for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The project faced intense public debate, lengthy hearings, and a legal battle launched by the Kitsilano Coalition, which argued the location — next to a park and elementary school — was inappropriate and the public hearing process was flawed.

In response to the legal challenge, the provincial government passed legislation to override the court process and push the project forward. But the B.C. Court of Appeal struck down that law, leading the city to abandon its legal defence — effectively nullifying the rezoning approval.

“It’s clear this location wasn’t the right fit for the scale and type of housing that was proposed,” said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim in a statement. While not commenting on future plans for the site, he reiterated support for supportive and social housing as part of the city’s housing strategy.

Supporters of the project say the decision is a major setback in addressing Vancouver’s housing crisis, particularly on the city’s Westside where supportive housing options are limited.

“We need to be showing leadership,” said OneCity Coun. Lucy Maloney, criticizing Sim’s previous motion to pause new supportive housing. “We can’t point fingers. The city has a role to play.”

B.C. Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon echoed that frustration, calling the city’s move “disappointing.”

“There are people sleeping in parks in that very community,” he said. “We need to get them indoors and get them help.”

But members of the Kitsilano Coalition say the decision is a win for due process and public safety. “We are grateful that the current council is working with us,” said spokesperson Karen Finnan.

Other Kits residents remain frustrated with the cancellation. “There’s a housing crisis,” said neighbour Dina Dinat. “We need more options for vulnerable people — not fewer.”

The province says it will now look at other sites in the area to pursue future housing solutions.