Vancouver City Council Approves Over 3,000 New Homes

Vancouver City Council has approved the rezoning of over 3,000 new homes as part of its efforts to address the city’s housing crisis. This significant decision, taken during the second half of 2025, includes the green light for 15 residential high-rise towers, contributing to the ongoing transformation of the urban landscape.

Throughout the latter part of 2025, the City Council focused on a more selective approach to major residential projects, approving ten notable applications. This contrasts with the first half of the year, which saw a flurry of activity with 18 high-rise towers approved, collectively set to deliver approximately 3,700 new homes. The approvals from July to December resulted in the creation of 2,470 secured purpose-built market rental homes, which encompass 2,135 market rental units and 335 below-market rental units. Additionally, the council sanctioned 336 social housing units and 233 strata market ownership condominium homes.

The newly approved projects include a diverse array of residential options, with a strong emphasis on affordable housing. Among the key developments are 10 individual secured purpose-built rental housing towers and two projects designated solely for social housing. The TELUS-owned project includes a mid-rise building equipped with telecommunications infrastructure, showcasing a blend of residential and technological advancement.

Details of Approved Projects

The city’s rezoning approvals are concentrated in the downtown Vancouver peninsula and Broadway Plan areas, strategically located near existing or planned SkyTrain stations. This pattern reflects the city’s commitment to enhancing public transport accessibility alongside housing development.

Some specific projects approved during this period include:

– **2079-2085 West 5th Avenue**: Expected to add 178 homes, approved on July 8, 2025.
– **1855 West 2nd Avenue**: Will generate 135 new homes, also approved on July 8, 2025.
– **254 East 12th Avenue**: Set to provide 110 homes, with approval on the same date.
– **1527 Main Street**: Redevelopment of a former McDonald’s site, contributing a full net gain of homes, approved on July 8, 2025.

Other notable projects include a large hotel at **516-534 West Pender Street**, which is poised to become Vancouver’s largest hotel project in decades, approved on October 23, 2025. This project reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance its hospitality sector alongside residential development.

The City Council also made significant decisions regarding community concerns. In one instance, a project at **1150 Barclay Street**, initially not supported by city staff due to alignment issues with the West End Plan, was approved under specific conditions. The council mandated the provision of community space for local non-profit organizations, ensuring that development does not come at the expense of community needs.

As the city moves into the first half of 2026, an active period is anticipated with numerous applications under review. This momentum is expected to continue as the City Council prepares for public hearings, driven by the policies adopted during their current term.

While the latter half of 2025 saw a decrease in major project approvals compared to earlier in the year, the increased focus on community-oriented developments indicates a strategic shift towards balancing growth with residents’ needs. The comprehensive approach taken by the Vancouver City Council underscores its commitment to providing diverse housing solutions in a rapidly growing urban environment.