Massive changes could be coming to Capilano Mall and the 16.5-acre site surrounding it.
For the first time, the public is getting an idea of what the area could look like following redevelopment, as a master plan concept has been released by developer QuadReal in tandem with a pair of public information sessions.
The first session was held Nov. 27, and a second is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to noon in Capilano Mall next to the Showcase store. Members of the project team will be there to answer questions, and comment cards will be available to provide feedback.
In a presentation document, a conceptual sketch of the redeveloped area shows 11 towers going up, ranging from 12 to 40 storeys high. In total, there would be roughly 3,100 homes built, 30 per cent of them rental (70 per cent strata). Around 10 per cent of the rentals will be offered at “mid-market” rates, according to the master plan concept.
There would be around 152,000 square feet of retail/commercial space, concentrated toward the front of the site along Marine Drive and the back along Third Street West.
The concept also includes a 20,000-30,000-square-foot community centre near the intersection of Marine Drive and 16th Street West.
Behind the community centre, QuadReal said it plans to build a 1.5-acre park that will be connected to an enhanced MacKay Creek. Hamilton Avenue will be closed there to make way for those changes.
A major transit node along Marine Drive is also part of the plan, for commuters and others accessing retail in the area.
The plan aims to create two distinct neighbourhoods – one around the park and community centre, and the other in a “south village” area that re-imagines Third Street as a high street with a mix of retail and restaurants.
Online comment period ends Jan. 10
Community engagement for the large-scale project began in 2019, but was delayed by the pandemic. Then, a public information meeting was held in June 2023, and City of North Vancouver council voted to start processing QuadReal’s pre-application to amend the official community plan for the area.
Next, the developer said it will update the master plan concept based on feedback from the community and city staff, and will submit a detailed application for the OCP amendment. A final vote on the project is tentatively scheduled for late-2025.
With the mall turning 55 years old next year, QuadReal said it’s time to consider how the site can better suit the needs of North Van residents into the future.
Senior vice-president Paul Faibish said his company is excited to share its vision for the future of the site.
“Our initial design concept aims to create a vibrant community hub that reflects the North Shore’s connection to nature while meeting the needs of its growing population,” he said. “QuadReal is committed to engaging with residents to help inform and guide the future of the property as a sustainable and dynamic destination for all.”
For more information or to provide feedback, visit the project website. The online comment period ends Jan. 10.
Correction: A previous version of the article stated the online comment period ends Jan. 1. It actually ends Jan. 10.
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