Little Mountain Site Policy Planning Program

Background

Little Mountain was home to Vancouver’s first public housing project and has a long and rich history.

Built in 1954 by the Federal Government, Little Mountain contained 224* social housing units: 176 three-storey walk-up apartments and 48 three-level rowhouses, mainly two- and three-bedroom units. There were no retail or commercial uses on the site.
The buildings were designed by Vancouver architects Sharp and Thompson, Berwick, Pratt.
Many of the first residents at Little Mountain were veterans and their families.
For over 50 years, Little Mountain was home to a vibrant, creative and active community.
Residents were an important part of the broader Riley Park community, and were directly involved in the creation of the Little Mountain Neighbourhood House, Riley Park Community Centre, and the Vancouver Food Bank.

1954 aerial photo

In early 2007, the Federal Government transferred ownership of Little Mountain to the Province (BC Housing).
In July 2007, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between BC Housing and the City confirming that the 224* social housing units would be replaced on-site, that existing tenants would have first opportunity to move back when the redevelopment was complete, and more (see the MOU-LOU board for details). At the same time, City Council approved a planning program for the site.
In May 2008, BC Housing selected Holborn Properties Ltd. as the developer.
The majority of Little Mountain residents have been relocated to housing elsewhere and demolition of all but one building is complete.
In September 2009, BC Housing and the City signed a Letter of Understanding (LOU) regarding the site (see the MOU-LOU board for details).
City Council approved a planning program for Little Mountain in November 2009 and the community consultation has been on going since December 2009.

* Later directions from BC Housing stated that 234 units are to be provided in the new development.